Here are some good places to start: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet- find and connect with other BP members that are in your area.http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts - Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you.And, of course thehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/forums - ask any question about real estate!

I also joined REAPS too - local Seattle area real estate investment group that meets in various locations. 

@James Fulmer that is an awesome idea that I suggest to almost everyone getting started with investing.Welcome to BP, there is lots of info here that will educate you on selecting a duplex that meets your personal and financial needs.What part of NC will you be relocating to?

I'm in downers grove so if you want to exchange ideas or meet for coffee, shoot me a PM.

I bought these homes strictly out of the amenities they gave me as an occupant and at the time I never considered being a rental real estate investor.  

This journey started in March, there were times when I wanted to give up but every time I would read a blog or listen to a podcast I would get this renew sense of purposeIt took  me going to a local REI and meeting a newbie agent to kick off this dream.

That's very different that "renting" to dysfunctional family members who are unable to meet their housing needs on their own.I consider the fact that I have a very close relative who lives in one of my properties part of my success. 

Search for meetups in Westchester and the Bronx to start meeting people in this business.

You might meet a nice young lady and decide to start a family, who knows.  

However LA City have some strict laws in place.