The real work is locating these properties and I've learned the best way to do this is to work in towns/areas that have online GIS systems that map; topography, wetlands, soils, etc. and assessors data available for download either from local sources or listsource.com.  

With time management, sourcing materials and learning how to complete task on your own.

I understand that as long as I have the deal, I’ll be able to source the funds from financial institutions, private money investors, and the liquid amount I have to meet all financial obligations.Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and advice!

Whereas, you could be on the AG's hook for screwing John Doe the homeowner out of his sole possession in his life. 

I’m particularly curious about:Financing Options: What types of loans or funding sources work best when scaling quickly?

This is what active renters look at too which is why I believe it tells a better story of what rents are currently at compared to other sources. 

Learn the lawsDon't use a contract "off the internet", laws vary by state and are also regulated on a federal level Learn the financing techniques correctlyDon’t skip parts of the processDon’t ever do a “kitchen table” closingUse the proper deedAn attorney can help you with the legal work, but the rest you are on your ownYour guru will not bail you out“Investing” in someone else’s deal by providing a small 2nd loan so the “investor” can pay for “cash to the seller” and for “closing costs” so he can do the deal is a very bad planKnow what problems can ariseLearn the responses and solutions to problems before they are needed Know everything there is to know about Title and what that meansKnow who a "protected class" individual isLearn the "back doors"Learn human natureUnderstand timelinesUnderstand regulation enforcement (some of these "mistakes" have a 10 year statue of limitations ( they can charge you 10 years AFTER you do the transaction) and carry hefty fines and possible imprisonmentThe court doesn't accept "I didn't know" for an answer"Know that the source of the lead plays a serious role in some states and federallyKnow how much of a "profit" pushes the boundaries to invite an investigationYou can be sued by the seller if you don’t do things correctlyYou are automatically at fault if an investigator or attorney or regulator gets involved.

Zillow is still a great source.

Often times, their approval processes are slow.Credit Unions - Their member structure also subsidizes their financial structure so they can also be a source of low-cost financing.

A bit of cross-marketing can hedge your bets.At the end of the day, ALE is a solid lead source, but only if your property ticks all their boxes.