@Denise Brown-Puryear, that is a very common strategy nowadays.

Mortgage underwriting and pricing is complex financial work with very little margin for error (especially nowadays.)

Appraisal revisions are very tough nowadays. 

One owner is a wealthy casino owner who collects land and may consider selling but for way more than its worth.

Public land records have a plethora of data nowadays.

I think a lot of this has come out due to the low standard of brokers out there that give the industry a bad name unfortunately... its so easy to get a license nowadays. 

I've had good results with those they seem to be the most popular nowadays. 

But to use a casino analogy, playing with "house money" and getting all the perks is the best way to vacation in Vegas. 

Also add a large TV (75" are cheap nowadays) a bunch of chairs and a bar.

I would focus on established markets that are still showing growth and have more than just one draw.Taking my main market of Tampa Metro as an example - There is more than just beaches, you also have MLB/NHL/NFL + Spring break and MLB Spring training, aquariums, golf, casino, new downtown development, and a lot of business travel.You want to avoid markets with just one draw, as if something happens to that draw, you will be hurting for who knows how long.