Quote from @Hitanshu Shah: 1.

The problem is no one book is going to be detailed enough for your specific state and county.Right here on BP there are lots of discussions about tax liens.

I'm looking for you advice with my overall strategy and garner any experience you might have to save me from learning the hard way. 

Multi family can range from about $60k-$125k/unit.

I agree that is will be a gamble as to how well it will do.Also, ask the owner if they will entertain partial owner financing to keep from dragging family and friends into this risky business venture.Maybe even rent from owner for a year with right to sublease to see how it goes before committing to a purchase.

@Zach Howard if you're serious, you'll get a Pro Membership so you can access the analysis reports here on BP.You can then share those and ask for feedback:)

The right agent will have worked with Canadians before, will have lenders set up that can work with Canadians and will have a seamless process for management.Not only can an agent set you up with a GC, property manager, lawyer, insurance broker, inspector and everything else you need, they can analyze deals and put numbers in front of you.Your job as an investor is to vet the vendors they are providing and double check their analysis.  

My weekly podcasts will also help you get a better feel of our market and then might help you learn our market quicker and with more data. 

Practical Tips for Managing PropertiesFinding Good Tenants: Screen thoroughly.

Learn what people are doing right now in this difficult market and find a way to replicate their success.A lot of people say they are actively investing.