So, expect a variety of answers on this question. 

But you’ll find a variety of every type of investor on the site, and everyone is amazingly helpful.

Having updated accounting records and financial statements will come in handy in a variety of scenarios.

Start  reading Real Estate books (perhaps start with Rich Dad Poor DadTalk to a variety of Real Estate investors (wholesaler, rehabbers, syndicators etc)Truly give away your time to an investor who needs help in your marketLastly, you mentioned you are a finance professional, so you want to start thinking about how to balance your day job with your real estate activities. 

You'll find a wide variety of websites and information.I acutally stumbled onto several when I looked at the results of the online auctions and saw several winning buyers were the name of "Funds".

I am thinking I might have to do some research on an Investment Realtor versus a garden variety (no insult intended).

Have had the pleasure of serving this community in a variety of capacities including as a non-profit manager, school district administrator and now as a full-time Realtor.

Hi Caroline,People invest in low to mid-income areas because:Affordability: Properties cost less.Better Cash Flow: Rental income minus expenses is higher.Easier Entry: You can start with less money.Less Competition: Fewer investors are buying.Stability: Markets are steadier.Easier Rules: Regulations are simpler.Steady Demand: Rental demand is reliable.Property Variety: Different types of properties are available.But remember, these areas have challenges too, like management issues and potential property crime.

It will help her understand what it is she wants out of life, who she is as an individual and will help her learn to communicate with a variety of people.  

@Nikki ClosserI’ve bought several deals over the years from investors that did fine when they were local but saw their properties go down hill fast for a variety of reasons (bad managers, lost touch with local market, etc.) after they moved out of state.