I began my experience with Real Estate by connecting and discussing career paths with a variety of professionals from a CBRE broker, an alumni in wholesaling, and local investors.

My journey to BP actually began last October, when I was trying to find information and resources about REI but I didn't sign-up or anything because I was busy working on my professional massage therapy license and starting a new job in admin.

Looking to do my first BRRR very soon...oh, and I'm also a Professional Engineer and posted in the commercial real estate forum about Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments...so I could help out in that arena if anyone needs it....thanks!

I always had a good cushion, positive cash flow however small plus my wife and I were both professionals with good paying jobs.

I find note investors to be busy professionals or more retired folks who want zero to do with a tenant or pm 

Local meetups can help you meet some licensed professionals in your area such as, plumbers, electricians etc.7.

Level 5 leadership - The level 5 leader builds enduring greatness through paradoxical personal humility and professional will.

Calculate your bottom line using 70% of ARV (After Repair Value).Do not spend more than (.7*ARV)-RC (Repair Costs)Example: House is appraised at $100,000 *if repairs are made*...7*100k = 70k.Repair costs are expected to be $25k. 70k-25k = $45,000 (DO NOT BUY THE HOUSE IF IT IS OVER $45k)Take another look at the ‘going rate’ of rent in your area, make sure your cash flow is enough to cover ALL costs and include a buffer for taxes and unexpected repairs.Look at the property yourself - try to eliminate assumptions.Have a trusted professional assess and confirm info about repairs that may have been overlooked.Look at how much work you can do on your own and compare it with contractor rates to complete all repairs.

If you just say can I wholesale a lot of real estate professionals do not understand what you are really saying and will shut your question down by saying NO as a first reaction with out thinking. 

Since you have family in the area, I would recommend you plan a trip here and schedule some time with local professionals to put together your local team.