You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.

Woody's business started at the time he purchased the 1st property or at the time he held it out for rent, because, in any event, the expenses in question here all occurred before the purchase date, i.e., before December 30If the earliest possible date investor was actively carrying on a trade or business was December 30, 2004, then any expenses incurred in that year but incurred “before the day on which the active trade or business” began, all the expenses incurred from January 1 through December 29, 2004--would be, by definition, start-up expenses whose deductibility, and possible amortization, is expressly dealt with by section 195 (Start up amortization).Court case for reference: Code Sec(s): 162; 195Docket: Dkt No. 30077-07.Date Issued: 04/30/2009Judge: Opinion by Gustafson, J.Tax Year(s): Year 2004.Disposition: Decision for Commissioner.

I want to make sure that I am adequately protected against potential liabilities and unforeseen events, so any guidance from experienced landlords would be greatly appreciated.

Conversely, you can quickly build rapport and trust by communicating back with them during such an event.

Is it mainly through networking and events? 

What can you rent the property for as  long term rental in the event that AirBnb doesn't work out? 

Cashflow is what brings a lot of people into the area, but there is a lot in the pipeline in terms of development and events (World Cup, NFL Draft etc). 

I think insurance companies have become more risk averse as weather events increase.

I am afraid your strategy of using additional insured status to circumvent the lender being notified of the change in title ownership will just give your carrier reason not to pick up coverage in the event a claim arises. 

You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.