Find your local REIA and start attending and find the Realtors there to build friendships with. 

I really want to do local meetups and interact with more advanced investors but don’t know where to start.

Before you commit I would talk to banks, probably local banks are better than regional or national. 

If you’re interested in investing here, I’d encourage you to speak with a knowledgeable local real estate professional or lender to get accurate guidance.

💪 Start by networking with local investors and wholesalers to find deals, build relationships with contractors and lenders, and analyze numbers relentlessly so you don’t overpay.Stay focused, take action, and don’t be afraid to learn as you go! 

Are you focusing on local investments within LA County, or are you considering opportunities outside the area as well?

Are you local to the property?

A local property manager will make this much easier and handle the visits for you.Single-family homes can still do well, even with more apartments popping up, as they cater to tenants who want privacy and space.

I'm new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

You could start with your agent or a local agent who supports investors and could have contacts to refer to you.Lastly, you could consider negotiating with a local PM to take on a hybrid approach to management.