Get it under agreement for less than asking price and offer to bring the loan current and have them carry that loan.The way I see it is they are just getting MLS properties under agreement - the last five I looked at had been sitting on the market for more than 150 days (overpriced) because the payoff of the loan would not be satisfied at lower price point. 

I’m looking for insights on how to put together a deal with the following details:Asking Price: $260KMarket Value: ~ $265KProperty Details: 3 bed / 2 bath / 1,400 sq. ft.Days on Market: ~100Loan Type: VA Loan (Attempting a VA Loan Assumption)Mortgage Balance: $200KThe ChallengeThe seller is behind on mortgage payments, and while I don’t have an exact amount, the agent mentioned it’s over $20K.

Before getting started, I’d recommend focusing on three key areas:Strategy Selection – Understand the different investment strategies (BRRRR, short-term rentals, etc.) and determine which aligns best with your goals.Market Research – Study the market you want to invest in, including property values, rental demand, and economic trends.Laying the Foundation – Take proactive steps now that will set you up for success later.

I live and invest in the Lafayette area myself - I own several in the area - broussard, freetown, broadmoor etc There's a decent market here, I think it's somewhat competitive but there is some availability as wellOff-market is the way to go 100%Purchasing a starter home is a great way to get started - I turned my first home into a rental before I even looked into real estate investing.

These cities are the well known, sub 100k markets in the US.

Hopefully you are starting to see these investments as products and they have a set market price.

Nashville is a ridiculously competitive market.

Unique neighborhood and product within local market.

Fortunately for me, I started investing a time in the market where everything went up.  

If the stock market goes on a roller coaster ride you have no control.