Above all else, I'm looking to continuously gain knowledge of real estate, and establish viable connections within BiggerPockets and in the field.

These plans are more expensive to establish, but will likely save you money over time through the elimination of transaction and asset based fees typically charged by a custodian.The difference between the IRA LLC and Solo 401k has more to do with your situation.  

I would establish yourself with a bank ASAP and let them tell you what they'll accept.  

Again, not worth it since I have other established accounts and not wanting more hassle than I need.Had they a presence in Maryland I would have been able to use my investment property that has far more value than my primary here in Florida.

As a disclaimer, I'm not affiliated with any professional RE organization and I am re-establishing myself since moving to the bay area.  

After establishing a relationship I've found they want me to do well and will help out however they can.

There are some advantages to sticking to one market that you know well and have established contacts, however, real estate is local and different markets perform differently giving you an opportunity to hedge your risk.

Is it best to go through a local lender with the thought of establishing a relationship for future deals?  

Ultimately, we (my brother-and-law and me) would like to be able to purchase, renovate and sell-on properties using our own resources, but short term goal is to establish our company first.I found BiggerPockets just by searching the internet looking for real estate networking opportunities.

Since allocation of real estate costs of closing are very regionalized, these costs of closing may be paid with exchange proceeds (or deducted from gross proceeds before establishing the exchange account) on either sale of relinquished or purchase of replacement property.