New to Investing - getting involved

[Brian Oswald]

Hello BPers!

I am new to REI and am closing on a my first duplex with a partner in the next few weeks. We are starting to look for another rental now. I have lived in Grand Rapids for about three years now and I am trying to understand everything the city has going on to predict which areas might be good to buy in. How can I get more involved in the community? I want to know what businesses are coming into town, which might be relocating, where new construction is happening, when and where REI meetings are, etc.

Any advice is appreciated!