A question I have is where can I network and meet real estate investors who are where I want to be? 

It's more than just professional photography, cohesive and attractive design/decor and investing in amenities.

If you want a more professional and mature platform look into Rentec Direct, Buildium, Appfolio(?)

A noteworthy tax loophole, particularly beneficial for those yet to attain Real Estate Professional Status, offers a strategic approach to potentially offsetting OR EVEN ELIMINATING the impact of high job-related taxes.At its core, this tax loophole revolves around discerning between passive and non-passive activities within the realm of rentals.

I realize this is a general question, but my partners and I are just starting out and we'd love feedback/advice from more seasoned real estate investors/professionals to help us more forward. 

What worries me is this feeling that professional flippers find ways to accomplish the best looking finishes in the crappiest ways and cheapest materials possible.

@Sid Leibowitz Thank you for your insight on the importance of knowledge and experience with the tools and leaving certain tasks for professionals.

Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)  My engineer walks the site and meets with me in person and reviews all the plans, plus he makes 3 visits throughout the duration of the project to check framing, fire assemblies, etc. he's a structural engineer and would never take a risk that would lose is professional engineer license. we are hands on and he's local to my market.

If you pivot to flipping and other business ventures, you'll need more professional accounting software.  

Your network is the most important piece for any potential returns when you invest out of state.