I'm willing to sacrifice my time, body, friends, and sadly, family as I work to save up for my first purchase.

I always enjoy talking shop with fellow investors in the area.

In my area you dont have to be a GC to buold your personal home.Find a local bank to work with on construction loan (I would suggest you get a account for that bank and donuts always help) Get a list of your area governing body on what is needed to be submitted for approval.

They were both charming and hospitable--I had a blast talking shop with the big boys/girls! 

(still shopping) 150K Private Lender(s) - 4.5% Interest Only120 Cash from UsThis consists of 5 properties/12 units, all very well maintained units in great locations less than 20 years old.We are doing this primarily for long term wealth building over cash flow, at least until about 10 years from now (retirement time).

It will also help you to understand the limit of what you should be shopping for.

I see that other investors that is shopping in the same market I'm shopping seems to get great deals.

The intent of the law is to keep people without knowledge of fair housing, deposit funds, etc from setting up shop without a licensed broker overseeing them.

Plus I would find my buyers and get their shopping list then find the sellers. 

Look on Bigger Pockets and connect with folks that purchase in your area and see what they are looking for and then go shopping.2.