How to Secure Deals (via option) for Investment Properties?

[Scott Jay]

Hello,

I am a new investor and would sincerely appreciate any insight.

So far my experience is finding buyers (online) for my family's timeshares.

I have significant experience marketing online and, due to a well written ad, was able to secure a (well) above average price for their timeshares.

In fact, in regards to one deal, a lesser unit (less desirable week and size) sold for $200 while I was able to get over $2,000 just a week later.

My point is not to brag but to impress the fact that my strength is in the marketing.

Although I do have experience in the book business and know how to find value and secure deals in such a way to ensure profit / up-side, I have no idea where to begin in finding similar RE deals (I realize there is a lot more to it than books ;)

So my question is, where can one "fish" to lock investment properties / homes up at a price where there is still significant upside? I am flooded with course offerings via email...wholesale, foreclosure, HUD, short sales, etc, etc.

I have bad credit and no cash but am willing to work very hard to make deals happen and find buyers.

Is my only shot trying to work with / for active investors?

Any insight appreciated as this would mean an awful lot to me. Right now I'm drowning in information overload and need a starting point.

Thanks again!