Finding Deals on Duplexes to House Hack

[Abraham Moreno-Riano]

Hey all, I'm a new investor in Raleigh, NC. My first investment will likely be a duplex that I house hack.  I have my financing in order and have a local realtor. However, I have had a difficult time finding good duplexes before they get bought up. Does anyone have a recommendation on how to find good duplexes or dealt with a similar problem? At this point, I'm creating a list of duplexes not for sale in my area and will be reaching out to the owner to see if they are interested in selling. Is this a waste of time? or are there more effective strategies? Any help from the BP community would be fantastic. 

Thank You!

Abraham