@Nick Causa - I'm local to central CT and invest/flip/run a property management company.  

I have seen local CPA's claim they can help offset high W2's with short term rentals here in LA.

Find a HML local to you.

There are some very good localized mentors that hang around BP and contribute with excellent advice and information on forums, podcasts, and articles.  

Investor and agent local to Raleigh.

Look on turnoor local FB groups.

You will need to personalize and localize the content for you and your business. 

I'm not asking for a mentor, but just some advice from local investors in my market to help the new guy out with getting started.

Reno’s vacancy is 3-4% which is consistent with how the West is preforming.That 3-4% local data is from a separate source than this.  

It's like any other service.. are you looking to get coffee with a friend at the best local coffee shop (still expensive) or do you need to place an order with starbucks for a corporate event you are hosting.