@Angela Hudson if you want to fix/flip find someone local and fund their deal (ie lend).

Connecting with local investors, lenders, and mentors can also help you find creative financing opportunities to get your first deal done.Good luck!

Are there any local real estate meet-ups or community here that investors meet-up?

Do I contact appraisers and local title insurance agencies to begin to find one that I could use? 

But you knew the local landfill/trash incineration company had been given the ok to build a massive facility in 3 years.

Post the listing, Any local investor would be  able to tell you if you were fleeced in the acquisition, Birmingham is notorious for being different street to street. 500k houses one street over from 100k houses.

I'd check local STR FB groups and see if you have a local Real Estate Club.You can offer your services there, maybe for free in exchange for the experience.

I'm looking to connect with local investors, agents, lenders, property managers and contractors who have experience in these areas. :-) 

Researching local job markets, schools, and even infrastructure projects can provide insight into potential appreciation and cash flow.You might want to explore markets in the Midwest or South, which often have lower entry points and better cash flow potential compared to California.

My father was a member of the IBEW out of Local 6, so I have a deep respect for your profession.Are you planning to use the BRRRR strategy on a 4-unit, or are you leaning toward a turn-key investment?