But yo have to pay your dues first by connecting, attending and networking.My 2 cents,Mike

I have attended local meetups so that I can have a handful of experienced folks who have resources to share.  

Terms such as interest rates and payment schedules are typically negotiable.Combining creative financing with seller financing can include strategies like:Subject-to and Seller Financing: Taking over the seller's mortgage and financing the equity portion through the seller.Lease Option: Renting with an option to buy while negotiating seller financing for part of the purchase.Wraparound Mortgage: Keeping the seller's existing loan while they finance a new loan that includes the balance.To proceed, consider connecting with experienced investors, understanding local legal implications, and attending networking events to gather insights.

The REO class starts on Monday and I am attending but I am not spending another nickel with this so-called guru or his COGO Capital organization, which he claims costs $1999.00 but is pitching for $199.00 now and another $199.00 in 30 days.

My professional background is data science / analytics, which means analyzing cash flows will probably come more naturally than building relationships, which apparently, is how one finds deals worth making.Are there meetups in these areas I should attend (digitally at first, presumably)? 

I haven't had opportunity to attend yet. 

Even if the HOA currently allows rentals, it’s worth attending HOA meetings or reviewing their amendment history.

Maybe I’m being a little optimistic, but I feel like this is a good starting point for us.I’m not interested in investing outside of Orange County for our first property since we know the area really well.Networking:I’d also love to attend some real estate meetups around here and connect with people in the space.

I try to attend meet-ups as the guy on the other side 😉.

Get those young healthcare professionals butts in seats for an "informal first-time homebuyer Q&A" with you and a local lender that has some FTHB goodies (and maybe you offer some healthcare professional goodies, like paying for a home warranty plus a $1k credit towards closing costs - only for folks attending your Q&A).