Account Closed You can do automated lead generation in several ways, depending on whether you're looking for seller leads, buyer leads or private lender leads.Seller Leads: (1) Lead Swiper (online lead search with dozens of targeted searches), (2) Instant Leads -- direct access to listed properties nationwide with a click (3) OfferBot, automated offer making software (I use this every day) (4) Direct Mail Connect (upload your own list or use lists out of Freedomsoft) -- my team manages a ton of direct mail in my real estate business using this, (5) SMS lead generation (I use this every day)...and that's just scratching the surface.Buyer Leads: (1) Nationwide Cash Buyer database (millions of buyer records at the click of a mouse) -- including buyer name, address and all property addresses they've bought including closing dates and prices paid

This is just one example but without some intense research online you may not learn this, but by speaking with someone very knowledgeable in your chosen areas you not only save time but may find even better opportunities.Best of luck!

If you want to put the deposit in a out of state/online bank, then you will have to furnish a bond.  

I suspect the person who originally turned it into a fiveplex only applied for permits to make a fourplex and then did the 5th unit fly by night (perhaps at a later date) in order so the property would still be considered residential and allow for better financing possibilities.

Real estate investing is forgiving; the average person can still make money even with some big mistakes.

In 2022 I also sold my money pot personal residences for $961,000 and purchased it for $154,000 in 1999. $500,000 was tax free due to being married.  

For residential properties with a basis of less than $1.2 million, check out our online DIY Residential Cost Segregator. 

I talk to person after person in local RIEAs.

It sounds like you've done a great job in investing in yourself and taking personal risks. 

Like Jake Baker suggested, keep good records and have a dedicated bank account for your property, properly separating personal and business expenses.