Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Here are some recommendations for you: Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastWishing you the best!

I actually found my broker here on BP so once you choose a market, definitely set up some keywords and run some searches to find who is active in the area.

It seems challenging to do that now as there are so many posts every day and so many users.Some things I've wondered:I have keyword alerts, but maybe they're not specific enough? 

You can set up keyword alerts so anytime someone posts about Midland you'll be notified.

Once you pick a market to invest set up a keyword alert for that area.

I don't have any special insights on Lake County, but here are a few things that may be helpful to you here on the Bigger Pockets website:You can set up keyword alerts so anytime someone posts about Lake County or Northern Illinois you'll be notified.

You can set up keyword alerts so anytime someone posts about Indianapolis or KC, you'll be notified.

I don't know of an agent in your area but I suggest you set up a keyword alert for your area.

Key words: Thurston County, Lewis County, Pierce County, Mason County, grays harbor county, contractor, GC, Tenino, Washington State, Seattle