., so make sure you're networking with lots of other investors, property managers, contractors, etc. in your area and asking them about the numbers.

I have been lurking on Bigger Pockets for sometime now and have finally committed to taking action on my goals for 2018 (mainly, purchase a 10+ unit apartment building) so I figured it would be best to introduce myself the the BP community and start networking. 

I'd definitely appreciate the opportunity to meet others who are active in this space and learn from them and expand my network.

Start networking for potential partners, people who may have more capital or have a W-2.

I do plan to attend some meetups in the near future and start networking that way

Go to networking events in your area, reach out to developers on here and ask if they work in your area or know someone who does. 

Is a DIY way or do i need to contact a agent?

I watched Chris Goff's webinar and have signed up with REIPro to educate myself on wholesaling and I am eager to get started.I would love to network with other Real Estate Investors in the DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) area and do joint ventures together. 

Another option is to network like crazy in your area and find a very qualified person/mentor to jv with.

Everything I've read says network, network, network...hard to do from here (granted I'm not a natural networker anyways).These are all mostly excuses...I acknowledge this.