I avoid trying to strike a deal with anyone until the project is nearly entirely done.

And it’s basically a one strike your out when it comes to bites.  

Ultimately, I think I'll be happy with my first deal as long as I don't totally lose my *** and strike out lol. 

Striking a balance between personal and business considerations is essential.

Sure, but it's certainly no Nashville or Austin.That being said, it may strike a really nice balance between appreciation for flips and solid cash flow for rentals.

So generally you’re not scoring a better deal not having an agent involved...you ‘re missing a business opportunity to strike a deal and share some of the profits with your agent, especially if you’re doing all the legwork and their just putting their name on the offer.

When agreeing to a lease you STRIKE OUT any leasing agent perpetuity clauses where they keep getting paid upon renewal.If it's a national tenant that is premium it is okay to pay the leasing commissions at the time of occupancy.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation and bring up your home search.

There can be all sorts of potential delays, including weather, labor strikes or walk outs, or other problems. 

The premium you pay for a "turnkey" property + the repairs the current owner likely didn't do, that you have to pay for, is a riskier play than the more fixer upper that can you strike a deal for.