More traps, patch up holes, tell your tenants to be extra clean when dealing with food. 

Are there any creative ways you’d recommend for me to identify and approach motivated sellers or uncover foreclosures?

I liked student rentals and I found that didn’t motivate him.

Instead, start by sharing why you’re interested and ask questions to understand the seller’s motivation like, ‘Why do you think it hasn’t sold yet?’

Locate a Motivated Seller that will consider Seller Financing.

My point is that there are plenty of motivated participants at this price point even if the gross commission is low.  

Without going into great detail, you are provided 50 motivated leads per month for 1/5th of the cost I have found from “retail” lead companies. 

Our 275 sq ft furnished garage should rent for $1600 - $1800/mo and the only extra fees compared to long term is $99/yr to post on furnishedfinders.com. ...I should have this finished by the end of next month, so can keep you updated on whether this plan works and what we rent for. 

What's your motivation to get into real estate investing? 

   #9  SWEETEN the POT:    Do not think that paying extra rent is going to entice owners to rent to you.