The only wrench in all of this is that as I am not familiar with the area in its entirety, I am having trouble networking with a decent contractor that I can partner with/hire to help with the rehabbing process.

You can still find properties for $40k (might need a little work)Curtis Waters  on here is a wonderful resource for GastoniaEverything is about networking. 

Hey Joseph,Congratulations for thinking of starting at your young age.To get a loan, find someone in your network who believe in you: Family, friends, etc. who is willing to act as a guarantor on the loan, if you cannot secure it yourself.You would have to come up with some capital to put down as a down payment.

I would suggest getting out there (flying to conferences) because the best networking with the best people is rarely in your local area.

I look forward to expanding my network and meeting other like minded people close to me!

But they all came because I network a lot in my neck of the woods (hint, hint...)

I would also suggest that you do some networking and connect with partners who are full time in real estate.

Network with other people in the business, or just be around them.

I recommend that you join a local real estate investors association. www.gareia.com offers great training and networking for new investors.

The most active (SEO-friendly) companies will pop up, and those wholesalers are constantly finding/buying/selling inventory.My personal favorite is networking with other house flippers.