We decided to try different types of financing as everyones situation is unique.

@Cameron York - whether a note will go into foreclosure really is a unique situation on the note and as part of due diligence you will have a good idea if it is definite foreclosure or possible foreclosure.

As an operator of a turnkeyesq product I have a unique point of view about this topic.I think it is a good idea for you to look at the property, the neighborhood & hire an inspector on your 1st purchase.

Secondary units have some unique advantages in Berkeley and Oakland due to recent changes to regulations.

Real property is unique and with that goes unique laws and ethical requirements, one who has dealt in personal property cannot assume that a strategy dealing in used cars is okay in real estate!

Writing that as an offer contingency would certainly be unique.

Stretching or over-leveraging with an IRA is a recipe for disaster.

Unless you have a unique way of generating a higher return and can attract investor capital or are investing your own self-directed IRA and buying in cash (most current buyers/hence long horizon), it's going to be tough for you. 

Since you don't want to create the same list as everyone else, maybe look into creating unique mail pieces as well so you stand out from your competition.  

We're small and our subcontractors are small and stretched to the max.