I don't think this is a large opportunity for REO, unless you are already in the game.  

I feel like I'm folding a pair of pocket aces, but I have to play the game with discipline, or you lose your stake.

The variables are skills, confidence, and love of the game.

I’m new to the game in Cedar Lake, looking for properties.

Buying without any skin in the game is high-risk and a recipe for disaster.

Having said that, they know how the game is played and that they are messengers for their clients whether that is the buyer or seller.

PHX is in more of a flipping market than renting market atm, so that game-plan makes a lot of sense. 

That's an amazing accomplishment and you are way ahead of the game in focusing on your investment journey so early.

It's very hard to play the game of real estate without it, and I'd encourage all new investors to work hard to maximize their income upside, and work hard to get into a stable position before obliterating your DTI on a capex nightmare.

Game over.