New Investor from the East Bay

Hello all, 

I am new to BiggerPockets and I am excited to invest on my first property. Since the prices are so high in California, I though I would look at another place like Indianapolis, IN. The only issue is finding dependable people out of state. I would rather invest in California where I can oversee the property easily, but the prices are up the roof. If there is an investor nearby that I can connect with, I would love to learn as much as I can from his/her experience. I am willing to shadow or even partner with someone that knows the ropes. Thanks in advance!