Our local RIEA is http://creianc.org and has a main meeting monthly (second Monday I think) as well as beginner and advanced groups. It's a great place to meet many local investors who aren't on BP. We also have a member e-mail group that is regularly used for the CREIA members to share contacts and ask questions.
In addition there are few investors in the area on BP.
Affordable housing is a huge issue in Asheville right now with many searching for answers. Here is a recent local article on some ideas from city council candidates: http://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2015...