I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

I’m currently doing research about up and coming areas such as this post as well as looking for local groups.

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.

Paid a top local esigner to come have a look and all she did was insult our cute little place that was doing just fine.....But I think where a designer could add value is by suggesting unique areas, like game rooms, coffee bars, outdoor BBQ/play areas, and stuff like that. 

Follow the local licensing and disclosure laws.

Start local and small, then grow from there with experience.

I'm local and don't mind helping out. 

He is a wealth of knowledge on the area and is actively investing locally as well.

I’d love to connect with local investors and agents and, further down the line, with contractors when we’re ready to take the next steps.Looking forward to connecting and learning from everyone here!

A customer of mine happened to be a local real estate investor and he owned the land next to my business.