Honda, Facebook, and Amazon are a few others who have individually invested several billion into the area. 

Are you focusing on online lead gen like Facebook ads, Zillow, or platforms like BiggerPockets?

Advertising a non-conforming unit without disclosing its illegal status could be considered deceptive (and fraudulent), opening the owner to major legal risks (fines or tenant lawsuits).Even private marketing, like word-of-mouth, doesn’t absolve the owner from liability if the unit fails to meet legal requirements.

At first, you won't be able to offset your W2 income with losses, but it is nice when you sell a property at a profit and all the capital gains are wiped out by losses from other properties.A huge amount of tax savings get unlocked if one of you leaves your W2 job to focus on real estate and you get Real Estate Professional Status (REPS). 

Also the Huntsville AL Off Market Deals Facebook Group is great to see off market properties investors are selling. 

Facebook groups have useful information, but tend to be about 75 percent spam or sham so you have to be careful in there.

If you are claiming Real Estate Professioanl Status(REPS), it is important to keep a log of your activities. 

Join online communities like Facebook Groups and BiggerPockets Forums to engage with experienced investors.

Rise network also has big facebook group as well. 

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area.