Quote from @Tyler Kesling: Completely new to this so my 2025 goals are to make my first purchase of a cash-flowing 2-4 unit multifamily in my local market, refine my systems, and to continue to learn and build connections.  

Likewise, I would suggest to connect with some other investors locally. 

So if you search for specific terms like “real estate for sale” or something similar, you should discover a few solid leads that you never would have found otherwise.All in all, using the search feature is a great way to discover other connections to valuable real estate as well.

Quote from @Dalton Summers: Hope this helps. https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4735.24(A) Except as otherwise provided in this section, when earnest money connected to a real estate purchase agreement is deposited in a real estate broker's trust or special account, the broker shall maintain that money in the account in accordance with the terms of the purchase agreement until one of the following occurs:(1) The transaction closes and the broker disburses the earnest money to the closing or escrow agent or otherwise disburses the money pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement.(2) The parties provide the broker with separate written instructions that both parties have signed that specify how the broker is to disburse the earnest money and the broker acts pursuant to those instructions.(3) The broker receives a copy of a final court order that specifies to whom the earnest money is to be awarded and the broker acts pursuant to the court order.(4) The earnest money becomes unclaimed funds as defined in division (M)(2) of section 169.02 of the Revised Code and, after providing the notice that division (E) of section 169.03 of the Revised Code requires, the broker has reported the unclaimed funds to the director of commerce pursuant to section 169.03 of the Revised Code and has remitted all of the earnest money to the director.

Jon since you seem to have some deeper info on all this..

We’ve since implemented stricter due diligence practices, like deeper tenant screening, verifying payment histories, and cross-checking financials with third-party records.

There is a great group of members on here to connect with.

I'm an experienced lender looking to connect!   

Great place to learn and connect with like minded individuals.

The best part of BiggerPockets is the incredible connections you can make, especially with so many local investors in the area.