I can't speak to the resources you have available in NZ, but in the US most details you can find out for free, or estimate using sound judgement.I think some of the most valid techniques for aggregating the details is to ask other people who own similar properties in your area of interest.  

The best thing is to just actively get involved and learn from the mistakes and winning techniques of other investors. 

Take the property for free and work to clear the leins (advanced technique) or walk away. 

They will use a bunch of sales techniques that make you want to get up and go to the back of the room.  

Sounds like good ole ambulance chasing techniques...

I am new to the forums, but not necessarily new to BiggerPockets as I've been reading articles to learn the 'buzz words' and new concepts/techniques over the past 2-3 years.

If they bought a leasing company, they would part out the leases (office equipment) in various "portfolios" and then dissolve the company.It's just one technique.

Some people are just really, really good at marketing--which she's doing at her talks and in her website copy--but I wonder if she really actually uses the techniques she espouses.

My impression is that there were a lot of newbies that got real excited by the slick presentation and sales pitch without realizing that they weren't getting any real education at all, just minimal exposure to the business.Now, if you are interested in marketing and persuasion techniques, it is worth investing your money to attend.

While I am focusing on getting more familiar with the techniques and terms, there seems to me to be some realistic expectations you must have based on your home market, and the prices in that area.This leaves me with 3 options as I see it.1)   Continue to save more initial capital to meet the realistic barrier to entry- and stick in my home market.2) Entertain starting in different markets where the barrier to entry would vary significantly and therefore potentially require less initial capital.3) Attempt to creatively finance and stick in my home market.I guess what I am wondering is if anyone has any experience going the route of option 2?