Ashley,
Congratulations on the new position I hope you love it. You can get deals from realtors, but from my experience not enough to stay in business. If the realtors you are speaking with know of any off market deals that fit what you are looking for they probably already have multiple investors they can refer them to. Over time you can develop a relationship with a realtor which might up your position in the pecking order.
What has worked for me over the years is to tell everyone I interact with that I buy houses and what type of house I'm looking for. Everyone knows somebody and I get the best results by people I already interact with. I also pay a 1,000 finders fee for any unlisted property that someone tells me about that I buy. After you pay out a few thousand dollars you will have a crew of people working to find you deals that you only have to pay if they are successful.
I also make sure I make my desire to buy properties known to those working in the city offices, utility companies, code enforcement officers, police officers, and others who are in positions to hear about potential properties. I'm not sure what type of property you're looking for, but I focus on distressed properties which are usually easy for me to see. I've stopped at houses and started conversations with neighbors of houses that are in disrepair and have bought more than a couple by doing so.
I would also join whatever local real estate investors club is in your area. It's a good place to meet other investors and you may find out about potential properties there as well.
From my perspective I find the best deals by my personal interaction with others. Get involved in whatever organizations interest you in your target market and let people know what you do. Don't just focus on talking to people that might have a house for sale right now, but instead tell everyone that you interact with what you are looking for so when they come across a property that matches your criteria they will think of you. I wish you luck, and don't hesitate to reach out if I can be of any assistance.
