By adding the 3rd bedrooms, we were confident that it would increase rents and our valuation considerably.

Thanks for the vote of confidence @Tyler Carter! 

what makes you qualified to pitch someone if you don't even have confidence in yourself?

Also, check if they have skin in the game (their own money invested), as it shows they’re confident in the deal and aligned with your interests.If you’re considering alternatives, REITs are fantastic for super-passive investors who want steady, low-effort returns—usually about 2 points above a savings account—but you lose tax benefits and control.

EVEN THOUGH EVERYTHING WENT WRONG THIS YEAR IM STILL OPTIMISTIC MY CONFIDENCE ISNT WAVERED AND IM MORE DETERMINED TO REACH MY REAL ESTATE GOALS I SAY THIS TO SAY NEVER GIVE UP !!!

I look at foreclosures.comOut of the 3 stages I am definitely not ready for an auctionpreclosure / short sales:- I need to research how to take over a deed / title- need to prepare how to do door knocking (I have a sales background and feel confident in dealing with an emotional conversation about someone’s home) - there IS a window of like 4 weeks that I need to prepare for (have my finances in order) to then bid before it goes to auction?

Unless you are confident in estimating the renovations needed, I would highly recommend getting a contractor's professional opinion of the rehab costs.

Age: I think it will but you can minimize it by being knowledgeable, professional, confident, and fair.  

 I have no personal knowledge about either of these gentlemen but have been around the Paid for training for years and years.. both as student and invited Vendor to events.I think in a nut shell many of these give the student the push they need and the confidence they need to move forward.Although in the MFR realm this is not a Guru how to make money with no money..

Then do everything you can to study that specific real estate niche and then start to partner of some deals to help you gain experience and confidence.