The tried and true version is pulling a list of properties whether you're targeting distressed homes or high equity homes in which case you can pull on something like Propstream or Propwire, you can skip trace through them or someone like Prime Tracers which has a pay as you go system. 

You'll need to have 10%  thru the sale account by 5pm the day of the win, and will have to pay the remainder within 15 days of the win.

@Jordan Moorhead I know of many single-asset syndications as well as funds that pay distributions but have negative operational cash flow.

So, you can do a land contract for 12 months, which should allow lender to credit you full value of the land vs the purchase price, but the loan will pay off the land contract, so the lender maintains first lien position.Can't help you with the rest of your question, but you should be able to search for "CPA" here on BP to find experts to reach out to.

Anthony, welcome aboard.. it’s always exciting to see new folks exploring the world of real estate investing!

   #9  SWEETEN the POT:    Do not think that paying extra rent is going to entice owners to rent to you. 

Some folks have already given good advice, and I want to add a quick tip for how to get data on potential STR properties.

If you’re paying off less than $800/mo on your loan id say sell come April selling season.

Not really sure how to go about financing but we're planning on having a down payment at or slightly above $100,000 and don't want to pay more than $3100ish per month. 

I pay professionals for help and can do basic tasks on my own without free labor.