I highly suggest getting to some local meetup groups...here is BPs list:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a full list of the chicago meetups that I can share with you too if that'd be helpful.

We went to a group event for Narcotics Anonymous.

If you're looking to network with multifamily investors and service providers I host multiple events a month.

Now, in REI, the industry is absolutely overrun and fraught with people going about being mentored in the most idiot manners imaginable. 

End goal is get into the commercial housing and industrial.

Like I brokered a 22  lot development of duplex's for a builder and just charged him 30k flat fee per sale.. they sold for 225k each back in 05 when I did this and I sold them all in one weekend at a big event i paid for in San Jose CA.. all to CA investors it was my fly and buy program I did in those days..

Go to GET STARTED > EVENTS AND MEETUPS at the top of your screen.

I'm closing on a 74k sq ft (5 warehouses) Class B Industrial facility this week. 

Brokers have their place in the industry as do retail banks/mortgage bankers.

It is the most popular software in the industry, and most Tax Preparers are familiar with it, which makes tax season easier.