The energy in person is different for me, and I've made some of my best connections and friends at Chicago meetups.Here is a list of the Chicago event from BP: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a list of ALL THE CHICAGO MEETUPS that I am happy to share with you. 

I honestly thought to myself that both NY and Cali were very tenant friendly...

I'd also suggest speaking about Real Estate with friends, family, neighbors, and anyone else in your sphere of influence. 

He is also a jerk, so none of his friends or family are willing to help him out.

My friend @Julio Aguirre is doing quite a few flips on the south side of Chicago right now.  

Between lovely countryside and stunning coastline, great food and super friendly people I love this place!

With respect to AJ, he is a good friend of mine and I highly recommend him too.

https://www.meetup.com/dfw-flippers-and-funders/Also connecting to investor friendly local  realtors will help as they will themselves do flips as well

Next, analyze deals with an investor-friendly agent. 

I looks like you are in Cali which is a notoriously tenant friendly state.