No experience with non performing notes.My idea is to buy these notes with the primary goal of accessing the property through foreclosure, knowing that there are several other possible outcomes.

I am not going to do any improvements to the land, just improvements on paper etc.

@Alex Del Rio welcome and congrats on Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) this brings with it a lot of tax benefits that you didn't have access to before.

@Rochelle GerberHere are some of the downsides of putting real estate into an IRA or 401k.No tax deductions: You can’t claim deductions for property taxes, mortgage interest, depreciation, repairs, improvements and other property-related expenses.Property expenses: All expenses, repairs, and maintenance costs must be paid with IRA or 401k funds, and you must pay others to do repairs and manage the property.

The IRS has said, since 2017, that the improvement ratio or $ value is what your taxes are assessed as, unless you have a really compelling reason to use a different value. 

@Philip Jones we've helped our clients do over a hundred.As some of the lenders posting have pointed out, the challenges are:1) Property value and corresponding loan size2) Appraisals have much better comparables than 5 years ago, but may still be an issue.3) Property condition can be an issue via the appraisal4) Ownership seasoning - most lenders looking for 6+ months or incredible documentation for cost of improvements made.5) Most DSR lenders require professional property management.Always try a small local bank or credit union, but most will expect you to transfer your business bank accounts over to them. 

As insurance woes grow over the next couple of years, I dont see this improving. 

There's nothing left to cover expenses so you better have deep pockets to cover maintenance, admin, turns, etc.If you think you can quickly improve rents to a point that covers your expenses and pads your pocket a bit, then maybe, IF it hits your return threshold.If you're buying cash, then the mortgage is not a factor. 

Here’s the quick-and-dirty lowdown to get you started:1️⃣ Where to Look:LoopNet & Crexi: Good for commercial deals, though the best ones go fast.MLS (Multiple Listing Service): Access through a realtor for hidden gems.Auction Sites: Think Auction.com or HUD homes for distressed properties.Direct Mail Campaigns: Target landlords with older properties (especially those with code violations).2️⃣ Systems for Finding Deals (Step-by-Step):Set Your Criteria: Market, budget, unit count, rehab level.Build a Deal Funnel: Use LoopNet, Crexi, wholesalers, auctions, and brokers.Analyze Quickly: Use a property calculator to see if it cash flows.Direct Outreach: Contact sellers or property managers directly.Get Your Network Tight: Property managers, realtors, contractors—they’ll drop the best leads.3️⃣ What Makes a Good Deal:Cash Flow Positive from Day 1.Below Market Value (usually needs rehab).Upside Potential: Think rent increases, better management, or refinancing options.4️⃣ How to Become the Better/Best:Study the Market Like a Hawk.

Using multiple platforms together and cross-referencing with public records or MLS data (if accessible) can help minimize discrepancies.