And they will be scrappy by nature and certainly don't have that kind of downpayment laying around.Second, obviously is price.

This means 20-25% for a down payment, and it has to be your money that you're using (verifiably in an account that belongs to you).Though there are programs that lend up to 90/100 to first-time investors, those programs usually don't work in Maine due to the rural nature.

My bet on the next twist is the death turning out not to be natural causes.

I am introverted by nature. 

Then when you have some sort of portfolio and your face and name goes around, you naturally will attract people who will want to work with you.

I think you need to sign up on Meet Up and RSVP: Tuesday, Nov. 12 Walnut Creek  at Rotator Taproom 6pm (short notice - it's tomorrow)Thursday, Nov. 21 Oakland at Two Pitchers Brewing Company (hosted by Tyler Jahnke of Kenji Capital)Saturday, Nov. 23 Tilden Nature Area, Berkeley hike at 10am (hosted by Tyler Jahnke of Kenji Capital)Thursday Nov. 14 San Francisco - Happy Hour/Networking at Alchemist Bar and LoungeTuesday, Nov 19   San Francisco - 100% Funding for your Deal (Sports Basement at Stonestown Galleria mall)https://www.meetup.com/bayarearei/events/304151177

I've read many other forum posts explaining how natural appreciation in Scranton is very slow but will cash flow nicely in the right area.

(I don’t do STR deals so my comments are more about long term buy and hold residential RE.)Data by its nature is historical - it’s a lagging indicator. 4 years ago the Southeast was the place to be.

Flipping or rental properties seem like a natural fit for you.

So naturally she is confused (I read this by coincidence).