Getting off market deals in Kansas city KCMO

[Seth Larson]

Im buying a duplex in KCMO and getting ready to move there. this might turn into a long question but bear with me.

Its become clear through my research that there are 2 major types of investors out there. The type that simply looks at listed properties on MLS or wherever, possibly buying turnkey, that is looking for 7-10% returns, paying market value or just below, and being content with their average return.

the second type are the guys that are direct mailing, deal making, driving for dollars, working with wholesalers, negotiating. Getting 12-25% returns or more. 

My question is this..

im not interested in the first type of investing, I want to be hands on, managing projects, making offers, doing deals, achieving above average returns. HOWEVER, I dont want to waste effort or time.. 

the specific strategy for sourcing deals is what im not so clear on.

Option 1: wholesalers (seems easy, build a network, get deals.. im sure I dont have the full picture because I havnt tried it yet)

Option 2: Direct mail (requires money and time to go to appointments, which doesnt work so well with a 9 to 5..)

what am I missing? I mostly want to hear from KCMO people because I need specifics for whats working and whats not, thanks

PS private $ is available so cash offers are do able, just need the system first.