The ability to effectively self manage would depend on the scale you are trying to buy. 

Quote from @Elvis Diaz: Quote from @Calum Bressington: I want them to be available so bad, I would buy one right away. 

Quote from @Katie Accashian: I am looking to take money from my retirement that I accumulated from my previous employer and move it into a self directed IRA to buy a real estate investment.

And what type are looking to buy, SF, 2-4 MF, or 5+ MF? 

Look for motivated sellers off market and market via cold calling and or direct mail, geofencing, advertising and the like.A good wholesaler is as @Ericka Parrott mentioned, direct to seller, did good underwriting and can deliver an actual "Deal" whether buy and hold or flip. 

There is so much MORE work involved as opposed to buying a fixer-upper and rehabbing that!

Creative financing to buy deals is another dangerous approach.

I'm thinking about buying a property in NC.

Quote from @Collin Hays: I had an inquiry today from someone interested in buying a condominium in the Pigeon Forge area to rent out.

In some cases, federal tax credits like those for low-income housing or economic development might also apply if the project aligns with certain goals.Instead of buying the land outright, developers often lease it from the tribe, which can reduce upfront costs and sometimes come with favorable lease terms.