Whatever route you pick, go slowly at first.

You need a place to live, and surely you can drum up some roommates, pick up a duplex and rent out the other side.

Schedule it so they have time to pick up their underwear, put the bongs away and clean up the unit as they see fit to do so.

Just Google real estate wholesaling courses and pick a program that you feel comfortable with.Again, yes you can learn everything you need in Bigger Pockets, but not in an organized time efficient manner like a course.   

@Chad Jackson Welcome to BP  There are two forums with Tax sale in the name Pick either one will be fine.

Pick a name that is easy to spell, no numbers because you will always be asked - is it the number or do we spell it out?

Find a Real estate agent who is also an investor and pick his brain.

And, with only wanting to pick up 1-2 houses/year, I haven't found a wholesaler that will give me the time of day.

A deal that makes sense gets picked up quick.I have an investor that got one of my email blasts and really liked a property in Mission.

@Joshua Paul pick up some side jobs to help save money.