I would suggest finding a local meet up to go network with peers in your area.

Look for areas with strong rental demand, appreciating property values and favorable investment opportunities.Lastly, connect with other investors and attend local REI networking groups and meetups.

I am looking to invest in my first short term rental locally, and I am also looking at vacant land opportunities in mid Florida.  

Sam, Randolph, and Camp Bullis and knowing where those active duty personnel tend to migrate towards helps.

@Quiana Berry   You need to look at the numbers and local legislation. 

The above are made up numbers that will vary based on your market and local regulations but you get the idea. 

I would recommend that you join local meetups if you haven't already.

I spoke to local owners who have been audited for increasing rents without there permission and they had to pay back the difference!

Starting to dream about building a trendy tiny home /  container home community in our local mountain town that has become insanely unaffordable to the  locals.

Do I talk with a local bank, national bank, or mortgage broker?