I can't see any local investors continuing on with the new laws.  

Less than 50% residential will usually fault you back to someone who is local and knows the area.

Looking to get more connected with the local investor community on my journey to develop, design, build and hold multifamily properties.

Qualified home energy raters/assessors must be trained and certified as one of the following:Building Performance Institute Building Analyst ProfessionalBuilding Performance Institute Home Energy Professional Energy AuditorResidential Energy Services Network Home Energy Rater; orenergy rater, assessor or auditor who meets local or state jurisdictional requirements for conducting residential energy audits or assessments, including training, certification, licensure, and insurance requirements.How Much of an Energy Package can Be Financed?

Otherwise check out construction financing with a local lender or credit union. 

If you can't see the property in person, pay an experienced local investor $100 or so (someone unbiased, not your agent or turnkey company) to walk it and do a detailed video tour. 

I'm happy to learn a new skill set and would love to join some local groups.Thank you all in advance for any input!

Paul as a local, but wouldn't recommend it for someone investing out of state.

In our case, we make purchase money loans toward local flips, and I argue that deferred payments make our loans safer.

In addition you'll need to be able to keep up with the ever changing local laws and regulations which is doable from out of state, but will require proactive effort.To find a good reliable PMC I would start by finding 3-4 that are (1) members of NARPM and (2) licensed by the state Real Estate Commission (not required in all states, but always a plus).