@Lumi Ispas  my thought for Cody was instead of blowing 2 to 5k on direct mail in an area he has no clue about.. he can spend 1 to 2k and acutally buy something.. as we know direct mail is costly and you need to commit to a full year or two.. 

I would add prevalence of crime to that list as well, though. 

Commitment to the Small Disciplines - Once you have studied successful people and their habits, begin to take action by emulating them.

Sometimes it can be the best option available for someone but that largely depends on financing capacity, time to commit, and inventory of investment grade properties in an area.

Many sellers / agents consider the inspection (on your own, with a contractor or by an inspector) as a sign that the person is serious as it is a commitment of time and possibly some money. 

Experience:I do not have current Real Estate experience but I do have a strong commitment to learn and find mentors as well as Meet Up events where I can decide which avenue I'd like to go, whether it be flipping single family homes or plexes, or even renting/Airbnb'ing.

The ones that understand that when they do right by you, they will reap better rewards long-term are actually not as prevalent as you may think.

She lied on her application, committed fraud (fake credit report), etc. 

I thought about excel but am looking for a less time commitment strategy.

If full reserve/fixed money systems worked they would be prevalent.