IN my personal LO there was an agent in each one of the transactions .. the two I sold the contracts came through a broker and the one I bought had a listing agent and I represented myself as a CA Broker but of course did not take a fee.. the Napa one was really cool for us not so much for the seller..

I’m saying you have to do more of it on a consistent basis which most people do not have the budget for… I’ve never personally used the fake check mailer.  

I personally make well over $100k/yr cash flow from 21 buy-and-hold properties here.

We are a boutique firm in Chattanooga and every agent in our firm is personally involved in either real estate development, owns investment properties or flips homes. 

Personally, I would start simple with a single family. 

You could also sell the lead to another company/person.

Buying as a vacation rental could potentially qualify for a lower interest rate, but you’ll likely need to provide proof of personal use (even if minimal).

In general I say its a personal preference and there is no right or wrong here, just what works best for you. 

2) Are you getting the loan with your personal guarantee or is it non-recourse? 

I'm based out of Raleigh and personally own rental properties in Fayetteville, Benson and Clayton and could offer some friendly advice and help out with your journey.