However, in our 2 markets (Augusta, GA and Chattanooga, TN), we rarely have an issue.  

I don’t know anything yet but I’m in Augusta Ga.

I am in North Augusta now, but we moved here from Central. 

(However, do your homework to make sure you are getting into a legit and good association worthy of your precious time).3.

Wholesalers generally value there investors and don't want to waste there precious time on bogus deals.A little about me- I am a licensed realtor in FL.

We are 50 minutes from Bangor and 90 minutes from Portland, 25 minutes from Augusta and we do have two colleges here.

Bill Gulley mentioned this already, but in my opinion this "is" the first place you need to start: figure out what the fair market value of the property is.Don't waste your time going through all these steps to only find that you would be over paying for the home.Make sure this venture is even worth pursuing before you devote your precious time in lining up all the logistics.

Plus, your finance charges are taking a huge chunk out of your net income leaving you with precious little for inevitable maintenance and repairs costs down the road.

I really enjoy when they bring economic and political perspectives and do not like when they start going off on farming, buying precious metals, etc.

I blame myself (and am learning what not to do) but wouldn't it help to have an agent actually follow-up for you on bids while you spend your precious time looking for properties  by the numbers or other ways to find the properties to invest in?