Surcharge market They have issues with the cost of housing for locals.

Do some research on the rental market, looking into things like rental rates, vacancy rates, the demographics of potential tenants, and local regulations.

where is the best place to find local meet ups in my area?

Title co will handle all Get to your local RE meeting, you will learn more in an our then 6 months reading and sitting on the internet. 

Here are some steps to help you connect with investor-friendly real estate agents and successfully invest in your first home:It's helpful to have a basic awareness of the local real estate market, including average property prices, rental yields, school district ratings, and area amenities, before contacting agents.

I'm a local St.

Attended a few local REIAs.

Looking forward to local insight and general tips.

Welcome welcome, I recommend joining up with some local rest estate groups to network with in person and Facebook groups for investors, buy/sell, contractors, etc. to just be in the mix and see who is out there making deals and opportunities.

Tanner, if you can house hack locally I'd definitely go that route.