I could really use some help finding escrow officers familiar with subject-to deals2. any advice you would give to someone starting out in creative finance is very welcome.Question to the group: How often do you close subject-to deals? 

.#4 - Have someone local that you trust, go over zoom and get to ask them question.

As someone new to real estate, I’m curious if going this route is a smart move for a beginner or if there are better ways to start investing.

And someone jumping into this as a complete newbie can expect that they have a decent chance of making some expensive newbie mistakes.

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

The city operates on a block-by-block basis, and understanding those nuances takes legwork—or working with someone who truly knows the area.

Then think about writing off your cellphone, your internet, you car, your home office, your tax prep, etc etc etc.  

If you want to find out if someone really knows what they're doing, ask if they've ever handled an insurance claim on a sub-to (I've had many and was always able to cash the check).

I also have some capital to contribute.Could someone explain how syndications are typically structured, and how are people using Other People's Money (OPM) to build large portfolios with little to no money down?

So having someone, or better yet, somewhere you are close to, is something people look for.