Here’s the quick-and-dirty lowdown to get you started:1️⃣ Where to Look:LoopNet & Crexi: Good for commercial deals, though the best ones go fast.MLS (Multiple Listing Service): Access through a realtor for hidden gems.Auction Sites: Think Auction.com or HUD homes for distressed properties.Direct Mail Campaigns: Target landlords with older properties (especially those with code violations).2️⃣ Systems for Finding Deals (Step-by-Step):Set Your Criteria: Market, budget, unit count, rehab level.Build a Deal Funnel: Use LoopNet, Crexi, wholesalers, auctions, and brokers.Analyze Quickly: Use a property calculator to see if it cash flows.Direct Outreach: Contact sellers or property managers directly.Get Your Network Tight: Property managers, realtors, contractors—they’ll drop the best leads.3️⃣ What Makes a Good Deal:Cash Flow Positive from Day 1.Below Market Value (usually needs rehab).Upside Potential: Think rent increases, better management, or refinancing options.4️⃣ How to Become the Better/Best:Study the Market Like a Hawk.

We've found it has superior reporting features, integration features, and is overall more efficient to work within than other REI-specific software.The downside is QBO is not set up for REI so you'll need to do that or work with an expert to ensure it is set up for your business appropriately.

That depends on how many units are in your MF, what your longer term goals are and what kind of lifestyle you want.If there are a lot of units or you plan to have a lot of units in the future then invest in setting up good systems now.

Quote from @Emily Poerio: Hello - I am new to REI and getting ready to close on my first set of properties.

I've set this up for some of my employees who prefer gmail.

Go yourself, at least for the initial purchase, any renovations, and furnishing, etc. and set-up.

Apartments.com is fine when your tenants can get things set up.

Otherwise a total waste of time and money.Likewise entities, "building my team", "setting everything up correctly" and all that other fluff that benefits only people who set it up for you. 

Set keyword alerts for your area, try Euclid, and maybe a couple other neighboring towns.

'investing north carolina'- Set up keyword alerts so that you can receive notifications anytime a location or topic of interest is mentioned in the forums i.e.