The key difference, though, was he spent months carefully getting to know the local architecs, reputable builders, and even a couple of niche design firms that specialize in modern builds for mid- to high-end buyers.

And what is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper"?

Real estate prospecting is a numbers game, so the key is to keep reaching out, tracking your progress, and refining your process along the way.Let me know if you’d like to brainstorm more ideas or chat about prospecting strategies!

The lessons you learned the hard way in 2008 will be invaluable now, and it’s great that you’re aiming to stay small-scale and within your comfort zone of Sacramento, which gives you an advantage of knowledge in that market.Given your experience, I'd say start by focusing on three key areas to build confidence and minimize risks:Budget Control: Over-renovating was one of the big mistakes you mentioned.

I recommend you include some of your key qualification criteria in the advertisement.

.## NetworkingNetworking is key in real estate investing.

Meeting critical dates is the key to nailing a successful closing.

There's no step by step guide but there are key things : Learn: RE strategies, what interests you, what do people in your area need.Connect: find a mentor, accountability group and be around those doing what you want to do.Help: solve problems- do people need dealflow, property mgmt, construction expertise, etc. 

Starting small and gaining experience is key!

The key is to find a team and please please find a PM to work with first and let that PM help with the rest of the team.