Trying to get my first investor deal, but they are already taken

[Chris Fethke]

Hi, I need some advice. I started in the investing game 10 months ago with my brother. We are in the Houston, TX. area. We have yet to buy a property due to the fact that when we see one, we call asap and they are sold. Any suggestions? Thank you

[Owen Dashner]

Marketing.  Direct mail to absentee owners and/or high equity owners in your target areas.  Build your own list by driving for dollars.  Call the numbers listed on "For Rent" signs/ads and ask the owner if they would be interested in selling.  Go to sheriff sale auctions.  Go to your local REIAs and network with other local landlords.  Build an affordable website through Leadpropeller, Investor Carrot and do some online marketing and SEO to drive traffic to your site.  Post ads on Craigslist saying you buy houses.  Get lists of expired listings and contact the owners.  

In short, do not rely only on the MLS to get your first deal - you are going to constantly run into "highest and best" offer situations for good deals...