As a beginner investor based in the Seattle metro area, I'm eager to learn from your experiences and share my journey as I get started in this field.My current strategy is to focus on live-and-flip for the first three deals (looking for my second deal) to gain hands-on experience while building equity and learning the ins and outs of renovation and the local market. 

Join your local REIA to know more.etc etc etc.   

The key difference, though, was he spent months carefully getting to know the local architecs, reputable builders, and even a couple of niche design firms that specialize in modern builds for mid- to high-end buyers.

.👀 Risk ManagementBoth investments require risk management:Stocks: Company performance, market conditions, economic factorsReal estate: Property maintenance, tenant quality, local market changesBut guess what?

You can find the most recent sales price for the property on the local tax records website or by doing a quick search on Zillow.

Call every local investor agenda (look at the agents that have investment property listings and call them) and call every local landlord that owns multiple properties (you can get lists off of Deal Machine).

So, those become the local "Command & Control" centers.

—it’s also about reliability, attention to detail, and someone who just “gets” your space and your guests’ expectations.Do you have any hidden gems, local recommendations, or tips to share?

I recommend local meetups. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521

Also, look up your local REIA and check Meetup dot com.