Different people will be at different stages, but if you keep going to them, you'll start to recognize and chat with the same people and build rapport that way.I'm sure there are others in the area but the two I know of are:-Twin Cities Real Estate Investing hosted by @Tim Swierczek and Adam Tafel-ReBL Collective hosted by Alyssa Strom

That combo of early start and hustle will give you a huge advantage.A few pieces of advice that can help you grow faster: Leverage your agent status — Get really good at analyzing properties for clients; the same skills will help you recognize great investment deals for yourself.Network with investors and mentors — The sooner you surround yourself with experienced investors, the faster you’ll pick up practical knowledge and opportunities. 

In Virginia, a Memorandum of Contract is a commonly used and legally recognized instrument to cloud the title when a party has an equitable interest in a property due to a signed purchase agreement.

I am not saying you can't or shouldn't invest out of state just recognize the negatives of doing so. 

But not every state recognizes it, and it can be tricky across multiple states.

I also recognize syndication can mean a lot of different things and I am referrring to the courses and mentorship that supposedly prepare you to jump into 50+ unit buildings.

You just have to know how to recognize it.

It can be done just recognize the risks. 

The more you do this, the faster you’ll recognize a good (or bad) deal. 

Make sure you atleast work with a professional who is in the tri-state area who will more likely understand the NY state tax laws.Some concepts in the NY area that are different than states1) MCTMT Tax2) NYC not recognizing S-Corp status3) Differences between Federal / NY tax laws such as bonus depreciationBest of luck!