You would be surprised how much Wayfair marks stuff up, and that a lot of things that are marketed as unique are sold by numerous retailers. 

Sometimes it's ambiguous, but even then, why should I bother with the company that has numerous unresolved lawsuits, versus another company that is virtually the same but has none.

Search the BP for ADU appraisals to encounter numerous examples.

But the real key is to find motivated sellers.

From their point of view they're seeking three primary things:Access to capitalControl of their dealCost of capitalThey likely have a lot of the first two so the only motivation they'd have to accept your money into their deal is either the third bullet. 

I would find some motivation seeing how long it takes to stabilize a portfolio and start to see the profit.

That is the sole motivator behind seeking out these markets and property types.

.- Have attorney draw up a contract to do this.Suggest you offer your dad some cash, now or in the near future, to motivate him to transfer his ownership to you.It may not work out, but you will learn a lot either way!

A lifelong friend and I are motivated to (virtually) meet and connect with those in REI working in the Pittsburgh area.I'm active duty military and living in California with two rental properties (one in Virginia Beach & one in Pittsburgh) and my close friend owns a single family in Baltimore.  

Of course our big motivation is commission but you can get commission or a referral fee or something in an off market transaction if done properly.