As we learn the craft of brokering deals, we want to continue to go into the deeper waters. 

Keep stashing away from your w-2 job, resell things on Craigslist/eBay/Amazon, sell crafts stuff on Etsy, rent out a spare room on AirBnB (if you own your own single family home), do some freelance tasks on Elance or Taskrabbit - all to accumulate funds for that first downpayment.And all the while, attend some local REIA meetings to expand your network list.Hope this helps!

Often the best thing I can do for them is match them with the best agent I know in their area of interest or, carefully craft a plan that allows me the time necessary to get the job done right.

It's really up to you to craft longterm strategies that make sense.

Good brokers are very well versed in their craft, usually due to many years of learning and working in the business full time.

I have spent the last 6 months reading everything I can to learn the craft and I am anxious to find my first deal and begin to build some long-term wealth.

I've found a few leads and am figuring out how to craft my initial outreach by email or letter.One big question I have is should I disclose my budget or any numbers in that initial contact?

Sounds like you want to craft your own and not let others decide for you.

HR Professional looking to craft policies and practices?

These are often highly motivated sellers, especially if there is  equity in the property and  they need to get the bank to work with them to craft a solid deal.