Why wouldn't a great deal be immediately snatched up?

[Jared G.]

As a beginner, it can be hard to be proactive. It can be hard to figure out what a good deal even looks like.

Why, if there is a good deal in my midst, wouldn't a more experienced investor immediately get it? I live in DC which is a very tough market to compete in. What chance do I have, being very conservative, having bought nothing before, having little to no connections at all, over someone who is established, connected, knowledgeable about the area, risk tolerant, and ready to pounce?

I have no problem being patient, if there is indeed something to be patient for. I don't mean this to be a depressing question. I just want to know realistically and logically why, if there truly is a great deal out there, it wouldn't get bought by one of the hundreds of more experienced investors right away who know the business inside and out.