New to RE in Northern VA

[Sam H.]

I live in Northern VA and I am interested in starting to invest in RE. I have been watching the market and it looks very over heated here with properties going up in price and getting snagged in bidding wars. I am a buy and hold kind of person; primarily looking for cashflow and long term appreciation/tax benefit. So a couple of questions:

1. Are there any out there who would possibly offer to be mentors or just a sounding board for me to guide me through the process of identifying/targeting deals?

2. Given the high prices here and the high costs and barriers to entry, what would you recommend the best approach to get in? Condo, Townhouse or Single Family Home?

3. I have cash on hand for a large down payment or even buying a condo out right (price dependent of course :)). What are some approaches/tactics employed by others in the area.

4. I'd like to target higher end renters and families who could take care of the properties. Any tactics there?

I appreciate any help/guidance you can provide and I hope and plan to be active on these boards to pay it forward.

Thanks!

S.