But none of these were bought with any skill or direct marketing or any magic.

It's work, not investing, but learning that skill set really has helped going forward.

@Zaki Kaddoura as a renowned historian, known far and wide for my mad skills in knowing all the things about "the stuff", I would like to address your questions so that there can be no further confusion on the subject.

., from there we just need a lockbox code and negotiating skills to secure the best price, in addition to the $12,000 Realtor Rebate to borrower at closing.These are on the sales contracts and on the final CD or Closing Statement. 

I feel more confident and prepared now since joining BP.I'm a software developer by trade but have many a hobby and skills. 

That all depends on you and your skill set.

3) Due Diligence (Local help in evaluating zoning requirements, quality of neighborhood)4) Contacting Owners (Filtering owners who are interesting in hearing an offer)5) Making Offers (May be making 10-20 offers a month, low yield)Is it likely that I will find skilled agents or professionals who will put in the work with me? 

Definitley dollars to be saved doing things yourself and having relationships with other skilled guys to avoid replacement, especially old school construction.I saved about $4200 skirting a t-111 sided house with rolled 10" flashing to satisfy an earth to wood appraisal sub2 on a sale a couple weeks ago.

Every investor prefers to operate in a different manner and it really comes down to tolerance level, skill set, and just place in life at that time.

Staying out of the high crime and some of the extreme high end areas is our goal, supply is low right now, but plenty of deals to be made especially for those that are house hacking, or have skills such as rehab experience.