Learn about local zoning laws and building codes.

If you have any local noise ordinances ect make sure any lack of compliance fines fall on them and are also a reason for lease termination if they occur. 

I would definitely recommend start researching and learning your local market and house prices vs rent and different comps.

To get a crash course in tenant screening and local tenant landlord laws I'd recommend going to a local REI meet up. 

I'm an agent here in KC, I can set you up with local contractors, property managers, and lenders.

Find a local lender (probably a credit union as they love these) that offers 2nd mortgages - sometimes called Jr mortgages, HE-loans, or closed-end seconds.

Giving me the opportunity to better provide for my family and give back to my local community!

I have found my private investors by the following - personal friends, local meetups, real estate conferences.

We have a local STR organization that has filed suit against the STR quota implementation.   

I'm looking into multifamily (duplex & self landlording) in my local area to get started, but my tri-state area (CT/NY/NJ) has a high entry price point that I'm concerned with over leveraging myself and losing liquidity on my first deal.