I can show you some really good stats about it and all of the different sub markets so you know what, in general, is a class A, B, C or worse and what markets to stay away from. 

In the commercial space, different rules may apply.Other than this, you'd have to discuss the logistics with your broker.

There are a lot of different avenues in real estate and it can be overwhelming when you first start out, but my advice is to just get the first deal under your belt.

We have properties in the Memphis Metro area, Lakeland/ Cordova, which are much different than other parts of Memphis and North Mississippi.

An annuity is definitely a different level of risk exposure than this type of an alternative investment. 

I'm looking locally to start out (mid size city in North Carolina) - is the answer a different market?

It's going to be a completely different story with the triplex we are purchasing.

The steps I took depended on the property, each property is different. 

@Bruce Lynn💯 Add in each investor is different. 

Obviously, the rules will differ from state to state.The most successful buyers have trusted bidders with cashier’s checks in multiple denominations (for cash sales) and the actual buyers have field runners and people to monitor multiple prospective properties at a given time and check sales status for postponements due to BK, etc.This is the case in larger metro markets where many properties could go to sale but few do so.There are often better ways to acquire properties then auctions.