Hi All,I've been a member of bigger pockets for awhile. Have never gone through all of the intro steps recommended (finally doing so). Have made some real estate investments over time. Made quite a few a few years ago...

Many have an option to join virtually, but if you're going to travel to an area to scout it, plan your trip around some local meetups and attend while you're there.

I'm old school but do a trip down there, rent a car and drive around. 

As for financials, if you invest out of state, I would suggest you factor in at least an annual trip, if not two, to the market simply to check in.  

I didn't go out with my buddies, go on trips, buy a new car, or do any of the other admittedly fun stuff that my peers were doing.

I worked with a PM in a different college town in Indiana that would charge 12-15% on rent, but they didn't mark up maintenance, would often visit the property to help diagnose repairs before sending out a vendor to avoid trip fees, used local handymen that were cheaper, and only charged that percentage on late fees as well.

It seems like you're on an interesting trip, and participating in groups like this may really help you learn and develop.Please feel free to contribute to conversations, pose inquiries, and share your personal experiences.

Raising money today from people you do not know and if you have no experience is like asking someone on the street to go on a trip with you and you are going to fly the plane but you have never flown before. 

Sure enough some time later, he staged a trip and fall, photos taken with injuries.

I know you said Broward, but just thought I'd add that I think www.dreia.org is worth the trip at least once!