Struggling finding a property - Good investments on MLS vs. off market

[Doug Davis]

I am not doing very well so far in my search for a good investment property.

I have been looking for the past couple months for anything on the MLS that would be a decent investment. At most I'm seeing about 2% 5 year rate of return when I put the numbers in the calculator. I've heard it's hard to find a good deal with the rates now. But, I'm also wondering if there's something I'm missing. Two real estate agents I've talked to in two different cities are not finding very profitable deals.

What are ways you use to compare markets and find the best one for you?

Also, what are some good ways to learn how to buy an off market property and/or buy subto? I've heard that some mortgage types aren't eligible for subto, such as VA loans. I'm wondering if I should find someone that is local and see if I can follow what they are doing.

Or maybe I should just try some other way to make money with real estate?

Any advice?