The issue with this is that the competition is immense, and there are some big players that buy in these sales and don't mind driving the price up.

Hi Francisco,You may have already answered your own questions from this post since it was a couple weeks back, but your $1,000/month budget is going to be way too low to compete with the bigger players.  

In my experience...if it relates to an investment property, they want to lend more than $75k (at least the major players).

I have studied under many REI groups and pursued closing deals on my own, however, I found that in this area in Northern Virginia, it was difficult for me to build that trust with the big time players in this area. 

I have studied under many REI groups and pursued closing deals on my own, however, I found that in this area in Northern Virginia, it was difficult for me to build that trust with the big time players in this area.I wanted to take the matters into my own hands and BECOME THE SOURCE.

every major market has a Praxis or two at the court house steps.unlike 8 years ago or so .. when there was huge deal flow.I know in Portlandia  there are only about 6 or so players that dominate our 2 million person market.pretty tough for the one off investors to get a deal unless they pay close to retailwhich some do that are looking ofr long term buy and holds... 

If you are trying to sell to a retail buyer in an investor dominated area you will be fighting an uphill battle, if you are trying to sell to an investor than I would place a great tenant at market rent and sell while the home is cash flowing.

I am wondering-who are the best players to network with to find good projects?

@Andrew Reid Was the tenancy working well for you before they wanted to change one of the players?

I don't know who you are working with or even what market this property is in, but if I were you, I would completely be very cautious and completely vet the players.