I've been here for 10 months and while I was getting my documents, I've been attending meet ups and seminars but as I'm sure most of you have experienced, you tend to get solicited with the "gurus" offering you education for X amount of money without the security of knowing if it's beneficial to me. 

Welcome to BP @Mike Dittman You can find nearby members to connect with here https://www.biggerpockets.com/meet

First of all, most hard money lenders are not going to lend you 100% of the purchase and rehab cost - they expect you to have skin in the game and put about 20% down. 

I'm just starting out and doing it on the side but I saw getting my license as a great way to get into the REI game and save money on commissions when I would buy and sell any flips I do.

Always interested in talking and meeting people with the same interest. 

Here are some good places to start: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet- find and connect with other BP members that are in your area.http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts - Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you.And, of course thehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/forums - ask any question about real estate!

I also joined REAPS too - local Seattle area real estate investment group that meets in various locations. 

@James Fulmer that is an awesome idea that I suggest to almost everyone getting started with investing.Welcome to BP, there is lots of info here that will educate you on selecting a duplex that meets your personal and financial needs.What part of NC will you be relocating to?

I'm in downers grove so if you want to exchange ideas or meet for coffee, shoot me a PM.

This journey started in March, there were times when I wanted to give up but every time I would read a blog or listen to a podcast I would get this renew sense of purposeIt took  me going to a local REI and meeting a newbie agent to kick off this dream.