We see such a great need just in our backyard here in Atlanta.Time is too short not to spend our precious time in areas that are truly important to us.     

I truly love what I do, but over the last couple years have come to the realization that time is my most precious and finite asset and I'm tired of trading it for money.I've always had an interest in real estate, but it wasn't until the last several months that I really dove into learning more about investing in real estate and using it as a means to build passive income, and eventually become financially independent.

Also, don't put all your eggs in one basket so considering investing in some equities and precious metals as well. 

Originally posted by @Precious Thompson:How much does it cost to get a Real Estate License?

Staging would depend on your local market, and your budget.You can consider, as pointed out preciously, possibly staging only for MLS photos with the use of the same items. 

Lets all just keep in mind that time is the most precious resource that we all have.

My issue now is how do I get that precious little thing called data from the properties I am interested in investigating?

A piece of precious metal is tangible.

It's some n00bs who never bought anything, don't have any $, but using OPM they outbid me by a huge amount (maybe because they're not as concerned with a return given it's not their precious down payment bullets)

I wouldn't say that spending precious life time to drive around to get lucky is a strategy I use anymore, since the competition uses faster, better and cheaper tools and will pick up that gem way before you see it.