Looking to get back into the community - advice?

Actually, through the magic of AI, I can make this concise.

1. Main hangouts: This site here is the most active (I believe); also ModTheSims forums, Reddit, Carl's Sims 4 site, and some Discord activity.
2. Simblr remains strong; many creators now focus on Patreon.
3. Other platforms: Don't know, but likely YouTube for additional content/discussion.
4. Earning potential: Possible to make decent-ish money with good work and a following.
5. Success factors for top earners: Produce professional-quality content comparable to EA's. Ensure at least average quality, attractive screenshots, desirable items, and strong advertising.
   1. Regarding advertising: Promote everywhere (X, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, Discord, email lists, etc.). Use effective hashtags, hooks, and study successful creators.
   2. Regarding screenshots: High-quality ones are crucial; use Blender for renders but include in-game shots (CAS and live mode) for realism, as downloaders need to know how the item appears in-game.
   3. Quality standards: Avoid visual glitches, lag from high-poly/large textures, or CC conflicts. Focus on in-game performance and appearance; some technical shortcuts are possible, but poor work gets noticed.
   4. Consistency: Upload regularly; CAS items are faster to create than build/buy sets.
6. Bonus answer: Making money:
   1. Primary: Patreon (early access ~3 weeks max; permanent paywalls frowned upon by EA/community; otherwise, you risk piracy and backlash).
   2. The Sims Resource: Pays after consistent free submissions.
   3. CurseForge: Likely pays. Check that site for details.
   4. Donations: Limited; requires high-quality, frequent uploads.
   5. Ads: Possible via own site, but you'd need traffic from community platforms.
   6. Alternative ways to earn money: WCIF accounts, tutorials, YouTube videos — anything providing value/entertainment.
7. Another bonus answer:
   1. Learning to create CC: Start with recolors/retexturing, progress to conversions, then 3D modeling in Blender (as Blender is free,  and has the most tutorials available).
   2. Best resources for learning: Sims4Studio site (primary); ModTheSims.
   3. Avoid YouTube for Sims-specific tutorials (often incorrect); use it for general Blender/texturing, but stick to professionals.