Any guidance/ tips on how to proceed would be very appreciated.

Any guidance/ tips on how to proceed would be very appreciated. 

I was nearly scammed by a seller in the US who I met in person, met his "associates", toured the property with and everything, but my tip off to do more research was that he was against using a third party to hold funds in escrow even when I said I would personally pay all associated fees and noted that it would not delay closing at all. 

Feel free to reach out if you want to chat or have any tips for a newcomer like me!

Any tips on doing this and not looking like an idiot while doing so are MUCH appreciated.

Or tips how to find someone like you?

Here are a few tips to help you consider: Get Pre-Approved: If you haven't already, get pre-approved for a mortgage.

I appreciate the tip about Ed and WHM - I'll be sure to check them out.

California It seems like the market quite competitive.I'd love to hear more about your experiences and any tips you have for navigating these different aspects of real estate investing and development.

That's just a tip line not actually talking to someone who knows those players or what value the houses have.