Are you looking to fly solo or join an agent team? 

@Marlen Weber also has a great point about joining a syndication but it sounds like you are wanting to be much more hands on than what a syndication typically is. 

I joined a mastermind group to further my commitment and start analyzing leads.

Is it worth it to join a local REIA for resources and networking?

Yes, she's a saint indeed.I'd love to join a Cleveland RE investors group if they'd have me and would appreciate referrals for local real estate agents that want to work with new OOS investors looking for 1-4 unit props in B areas.

Great that you joined the site!

Find a local real estate investor group and join.

If you join the Charlotte Realtors Live (for Realtors Only) facebook page, you will see lots of recomendations for local BICs in Charlotte that are very open to that for investors like yourself. 

Being on Bigger Pockets as well as joining facebook groups will help expose you to a number of off market deals and the wholesalers who can help to supply such deals.

And 36 Other Key Financial Measures, by Frank Gallinelli.For mindset, I'd suggest The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich, by Timothy Ferriss.Also, for mindset, take a look at The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It, by Michael E.