This will likely involve a regimented program of sending letters, physically getting out and spending time in the neighborhoods you want to buy, and networking.  

It's not that I was in physical threat or anything, but I was just worried that I've never been in a low-income area, and I feel that I'm not prepared for the task.

Regardless of a tenant physically being at the rental or not doesn't mean they don't pay rent.When you are in the hospital or away for any other reason, your mortgage is still due.

Further, I figure that with a larger building I can afford to have property management and would not have to worry about being physical present at the building very often.

If rent is not paid physically at a branch (i.e. it is paid online or via bank transfer), the date of payment will be considered the date when funds reach our account.

That's why I like Real Estate, it's a physical thing that I feel I can add value to.

@Marco G. when was the last time you physically took a tour of your property, Inside and Out..Might be time..  

From my experience (at least here in Louisiana), the thing to remember is that you don't get the opportunity to inspect the property physically prior to closing.I have been pleasantly surprised and the I have also been "unplea$antly $urpri$ed"If you're the winning bid you assume the risk of the need for an eviction, a title lien, or unknown repairs required.The newer the property the more likely (it seems to me) you may have these risks of unknown liens or need for repairs.I would do it again, but I will only buy at 60% if ARV.

(This would be before you put your ads on your voice mail, and you are answering the phone physically).

It can be a hassle physically running around picking stuff up but most of my trusted subs are armed with my Lowes account cards.