There is also a recent Bigger Pockets Podcast called " Is This the Most Beginner-Friendly Way to Start Investing? 

A lifelong friend and I are motivated to (virtually) meet and connect with those in REI working in the Pittsburgh area.I'm active duty military and living in California with two rental properties (one in Virginia Beach & one in Pittsburgh) and my close friend owns a single family in Baltimore.  

Definitely connect with an investor-friendly agent, they should have all the knowledge, resources, and connections you will need.

Having a group of friends living in an apartment complex creates a sense of community and reduces turnover.

She goes with friends to more events as I am not an addict or in the program.Live music and dancing!

Have other friends trying to do the same. 3.)

STR-friendly markets make it easier to get started and grow your business, and the lack of state income tax is a huge perk.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52724-im-new-to-investing-how-do-i-find-an-investor-friendly-agent

Computer or Smartphone, an internet connection, a blank Purchase and Sales Agreement, and Assignment Contract, an investor friendly title company or lawyer(depending on which one your state uses for closings), a bank account..

Also if any NJ agents that are familiar with using these and transitioning out of them can reach out for some advice and education that would be great seeing that I will need an investor Friendly agent over here to help guide me through everything.