Noting beats persistence.

They bought property assuming that the same market conditions would persist over the long term.

Persistence is the name of the game. 

Besides the obvious - Go getter- Relentless- Persistent Licensed Realtor, MLS access and experience, plus I know 1-3 gentlemen looking to invest money on fix and flip investment.

A bit of persistence always pays off @Arthur Mayer 

Stay persistent and determined.

There are also lots of untold stories of slow, steady, persistent and patient wealth building.

To become a successful wholesaler I recommended a few things to you: (1)Recognize that you are in the business of sales and marketing (2)Study direct response marketing and advertising(3)Mail to more than just one list and more than just one time – create a marketing plan, along with follow up systems, and a database(4)Be persistent and track your marketing results…if something does not work adjust it and test itGood Luck

For some it may take longer, it may be harder, you may fail more than others, but if you follow certain steps and guidelines proven to be effective by those who have been successful before you, and you back those steps up with undefeatable persistence, you literally cannot fail, ultimately. 

Stay persistent it's a long but rewarding experience!