New Investor in the Providence area

@Edward Bethea Welcome to Bigger Pockets! As you've probably seen, there are a lot of great resources here including the excellent BP podcasts.

I'd recommend that you pick one strategy or niche that appeals to you most and focus on that. Otherwise, there are so many ways to slice the real estate pie that it's just too easy to get distracted by next thing (short sales, lease options, pre-foreclosure, etc.)

As far as connecting with other investors, you can do so here on BP of course, and you can also check out local groups such as Black Diamond REI in Massachusetts or RIREIG in Rhode Island.

Also check out the BP Ultimate Beginners Guide especially the sections on networking, finding mentors, etc. Some great stuff in there.

And of course, if you have specific questions along the way feel free to post them here in the forums!