And, in my experience, it seemed they target (dare I say "prey" on) people who are brand new/uneducated about real estate and are still in the "dreaming" phase of a better life.All that to say, thank you for posting this.

I try to target $500 per hour and $10,000 per month.

Then there is fraud and you have a lawsuit target(s). 

Just like everything in the Biden administration is targeted to destroy the middle class and small businesses

Consider direct mail campaigns targeting homeowners who might be ready to sell and spend time driving around looking for distressed properties.

If so, try starting with the median list price in your target market. 

My first recommendation is to look for a real estate agent to help you understand the market.You can also do your own research by finding where other investors are buying properties by Zip code in your target area.Best way to find properties outside the MLS is to get in contact with wholesalers in the your market and reach out to sellers directly by targeting the subdivisions you want a house.Also, you have to consider how much rehab you are willing to do or if your just want a property that I moving in ready

Now, a buyer agent, can greatly reduce their workload with a buyer by qualifying the buyer and being as detailed as possible to better target what the buyer is looking for.

It is a moving target and challenging so you aren't the only one dealing with these challenges!

Did you target a location and find a contracting company first to be prepared before hunting for deals?