I did not do a separate criminal background check as I trusted the info from Zillow (Big lesson learned never to trust the Zillow data again in life).

I'm here to grow, learn, and build a community in the Staunton, Virginia area.

I am trying to bounce of ideas from you and learn from you. 

I've been reading more about subject to and here's what I've learned:-Good for sellers who are off market-Have low to no equity-Have a mortgage with a low interest rate (less than 5%)-Be absentee or out of state (vacant property, or have a tenant)The buyer would then take over the mortgage payments, and have the seller sign the deed over to the buyer.

Learning from agents commonly working with investors is your next opportunity to find a mentor.To be honest, I wouldn't try to find a mentor from random investors on the internet.

@James Milne I'd love to talk to you and learn more about the process, and get some insights.

You can easily do this on a spreadsheet and it will take less time to track than find and learn a new software.

Since you're already in Tampa, staying local for your first few deals can help you stay hands-on and learn faster.

I would like to learn more about seller financing, I see a lot of information on the internet about seller financing but honestly I am just confused.

The lessons you learned the hard way in 2008 will be invaluable now, and it’s great that you’re aiming to stay small-scale and within your comfort zone of Sacramento, which gives you an advantage of knowledge in that market.Given your experience, I'd say start by focusing on three key areas to build confidence and minimize risks:Budget Control: Over-renovating was one of the big mistakes you mentioned.