Don't write a check Wal-Mart with shaving cream and deordant in the basket.

Thanks James, I'm surprised you don't have to wash your hair or shave your legs right about that time LOL!!!

@Jacques Ridore it appears I'm late to the party and your question(s) have already been answered.

For me, choosing between the two is like trying to choose between chocolate and strawberry ice cream.

For some info supporting things Nationwide Will and Jeff S have stated, check out these links:Delinquencies Continue to Climb, Foreclosures Flat in Surveyhttp://www.biggerpockets.com/links/1302-delinquencies-continue-to-climb-foreclosures-flat-in-surveyWaiting to catch a wave?

Generally what you get is the seller dumping low valued stock, financing it and taking the cream off the top in interest, they don't have maintenance, costs or vacancy, they usually try to finance at a profit over being the owner.

There may be competition, but the cream ALWAYS rises to the top.

Columbus Real Estate and Money, CREAM, is also a great group.

Thanks for your comment @Thomas S. , have a great day

The platforms do a great job with investor education and you have a chance to dig into each deal (even if you don't invest) to see how they evaluate the various investments.Only the cream of the crop (experienced sponsor, reserves, background checks, etc) make it onto the platform so you benefit from their due diligence in addition to your own.Regarding accredited only - it's not that they don't want your money, trust me.