We've had quite a few calls and I'm finally past being nervous when the phone rings and we've got a pretty good script now, but are still learning the ropes in talking to folks.  

My first recommendation is that you read the book, "The Millionaire Real Estate Investor" by Gary Keller.If you go to meetup.com and look up The RING (real estate investors networking group) you can meet lots of other investors in the Baton Rouge market. 

Ideally I would have a dedicated phone number that I could then have it ring my cell or my wife's or whatever number I want, basically call forwarding.

First if it's an REO with multiple offers you can forget the wholesaling stuff.If you have cash to buy it and want to buy it either to close and then resell later or hold as a rental after rehab then you can throw your hat in the ring with an offer.Throw the numbers from a year ago out the window.

I'll actually be attending one in jersey city this coming weds.

The Wed night meetups are best for me (location-wise).

    Hey Will,  I am part of a Real Estate networking group that meets every Wed.  

I've heard about signs like these and they are possibly sex trafficking rings.

There are meetings every other Wed. at Joes Crab Shack in Clearwater.There is a meeting on Mondays that Larry puts on as well.Message me if I can be of assistance.

I would wait for the next major downturn if you are wedded to investing here.