. - if I use my cash, the investment needs to generate > 5%.

A coworker mentioned they learned how to invest in real estate using the Bigger Pockets website so I decided to check it out to see what it was all about.

I was just banned from sending the same introductory email to 3 members.I am new to this website- what did I do wrong?

The wealth generator, the thing that one can live off of, retire off of, is the appreciation and how one leverages and tap's into it. 

I believe furnished finder is the way to go as it seems like the majority are looking on that website.

When considering 'break-even,' cash flow is included...it's the overall ROI that the property generated for you during your ownership.  

Still trying to get through some sales to generate cash.

Generational Wealth: If your SDIRA invests in real estate, those assets can pass to your heirs, benefiting from the step-up in basis (outside the SDIRA) or continued tax-advantaged growth if inherited in a beneficiary IRA.

The process for commercial properties is basically the same as residential properties, so it takes work.Again, echoing Dominic, a good investment is a good investment, whether you spent 8 months courting an owner to get them to sell to you, or whether it is on CBRE/Cushman/Marcus/Loopnet or any other brokerage website.  

On-line Auction Foreclosure Website.