Here are some methods I have used so far.Free Sources:- information, or free internet search like switchboard.com- pipl.com (not too bad for free - finds social networking sites too)- Courthouse records (shows previous subpoena addresses and if they have a driving offence their date of birth in my county.

I wouldn't start on the Internet for that because people can be creepy.

This is a great place to learn, just like everything on the internet just do not believe everything you read and if it seems too good to be true it probably is. 

He only pays $325/month.For people interested in the numbers:Purchase Price: $250,000Rents when fully occupied are $5,500/month (most units rent for $175/week) My monthly expenses are roughly $2000/month (working on lowering this buy buying the Water softener isnt of rent, switching the internet/cable company, and adding insulation in roof to lower my utility bills)The best way to get started is to just get started, I dont have all the answers but it seemed like a good deal and a great learning experience! 

If after adding the additional monthly recurring costs (electricity, gas, water, internet, insurance, lawn care, snow plowing, etc.) to the standard long-term costs (Mortgage, taxes, regular insurance, etc.) the property won't net at least $100 if I can get the average rent I see on FF for that area, then the property isn't worth more investigation.

I'm not saying This is the best area to invest in I'm just saying I was surprised at the amount of open ground and how far I could see in the distance.Just my 2 cents.From the  internet (NOTE I did a virtal drive through not in person):if you go there be careful.The McDougall-Hunt neighborhood in Detroit has ahigher risk of crime, with a CAP Index score of 8 out of 10.

So use the tools of the internet to show people that you are a savvy business person, and you will start attracting capital versus chasing capital (but you need to chase first).

Adding internet service to the building and placing mesh systems around so the whole building is covered..

Internet How did you finance this deal?

I found someone on the internet who told me about the avocado farm and he gave me the bad news that there are tons of lawsuits against the company and to count it as a total loss.