Highly suggest attending local meet ups and picking everyone's brain at those events.

I would highly suggest that you tune in to the BiggerPockets Podcast and attend your local REI meetups.

Lots of great folks there in all stages of their investing that would be able to give you some great local advice.

But, it's critical to evaluate the state of the local market, your capacity for managing several properties, and the possibility for cash flow.If you see great potential for long-term appreciation and are okay with the higher property price, option 2 can be a good course of action.

I would recommend looking for local meetups.

I generally like local options! 

Quote from @David Propst: Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of your screen and you can search for other MEMBERS or LOCAL MEETUPS.

YES go FB local forums 

I'd be happy to connect and share some local groups to join.

Have you tried facebook groups and attending local meetings?