This is the max that Sec8 will pay for any property and is the information that you can find online.  

I am betting your gonna find a lot more friendly amicable persons than shut doors. 

Purchase price: $160,000 Sale price: $170,000 Contributors: Peter Vekselman Partner Driven and Jamari Sprueil secured this Dover Ct property in Riverdale, GA, for $160,000 and successfully sold it for $170,000 on the same day.

I'm an investor in Los Angeles.

-- solid strategy as well, if you go this route I would consider investing with an operator that specializes in this asset class.

I myself am in a similar position looking to acquire a secondary home in the Banner Elk and would plan on using as a STR and would love any input on your findings!!

Quote from @Amanda Dobbs: Is there a place to find Private Investors as in one person?

Are you looking for guide and advise of an expert on the market or a pass through agen?

Even from contractors on a project you can get quotes that vary by 50% or more. 

In today’s market most homes will be worth more than their outstanding loan balance unless they are VERY recent purchases with little to no money down.