START with a chosen strategy, then DEFINE the specific targets within that strategy, get VERY definitive.

. - I don't disagree with you - I don't personally recommend anyone become a private lender but plenty come to me seeking support because they've chosen that as their entry point into real estate WHILE managing their day job.

I want to purchase my first property within Q1 to get in the game, but I would like to head down my chosen path rather than switching gears all the time.

Awesome stuff mate and my fedora is off to you :)I've said it before and I'll say it again.God Bless America as it truly is the best country in the world.You can't do anywhere else what you can here when it comes to business and real estate.Moved here with "nada" in late 2012 and unofficially retired 2 years ago (4 years later).3 companies, 500+ deals and 2 back to back Inc 5000's.Truly humbled to be where I am.If only I was American and lived here my whole life lolI think I'd be the president by now hahaI won't remember the days of getting laughed out of rooms for being a "Crazy Australian that's chosen Toledo".I guess I get the last laugh now hehehehehe :)Much success

Needless to say I still am looking for under market duplex through quads in my chosen REI market. 

Then go back and allow your chosen lender to pull your credit.Lastly, the down side of HELOCs.

For example, they even put in an a option which you could directly call the buyer/seller and leave a message if they don't answer while keeping the sellers/buyers contact information confidential (if so chosen) during the process.  

This timeframe will allow you to determine whether the chosen channel is a good fit for your business or not.Don't give up!

Prepare a CMA to understand rents and competitionA comparative market analysis (CMA) helps you to understand what the fair market rents really are, choices tenants have on where to rent (in other words, who your potential competition is), and what a reasonable price to pay for a property with good cash flow is.The accuracy of a CMA depends on how well the comparable properties are chosen.

Tenant chosen within 2 weeks tops Zillow is a great tool.