Great networking and educational opportunities. 

I haven't had much luck with the Meetups, as most are either pitchfests or drinking buddies.Welcome to BP.... here and AZREIA are probably your best bets for now, plenty of education to be found between these two, with networking here and through your other options once you have some wind in your sails.

Start by getting educated, learn the real estate terminology, and interact on the forums. 

I changed a water heater, huge leak in one of the units, electrical issues, and I even had to dig a 3 foot hole under the house and personally fix a pipe.

And if you're ready to pull the trigger, just keep reading until you change your mind. 

Nothing will be pitched and all of it is for networking and education.

As you look for deals, start absorbing education from BP, books and podcasts.  

I was wondering if you all could give me your educated opinion on the pros and cons of using equity from my home to invest into properties to flip.

It isn't fast cash, but when you get to 15K, 20K a month income it will be life changing. 

Norfolk you need to watch the address closely as the neighborhoods change very fast, block to block.