My goal is to achieve financial freedom by age 36 and to understand various aspects such as investing education, strategies, business planning, properties, marketing, and exit strategies.

San Antonio is a hot market still for flipping.

Quote from @Quinzel Waiters: Hello all I'm new to the Real estate space but I'm working on getting my first off market dealCurrently I'm looking at a heavily distressed property that's priced too high.

The area has seen growth in both the residential and rental markets, making it a potentially lucrative investment.For financing, you can explore options like conventional loans, FHA loans (for owner-occupied properties), or even local programs that might offer lower down payments for investment properties.

I purchased a duplex (Austin, TX) at peak market prices in 2022 for $720k.

Cleveland would be a great market for you.

And if houses are showing an owner having been there for 10+ years when that owner actually sold 8 months ago, then I might market to a completely unqualified lead. 

I don't know if shifting to MTR could generate greater interest but it doesn't solve the marketability issue and all you are doing is punting the root issue down the road. 

One year after I used that property to pull a HELOC and this year used that money to purchase an off market 4 family property in Clinton for well under market value, which I just recently finished all of the repairs and upgrades on.

So, I’m curious how you are managing to find your deals, whether you are buying at auctions or via marketing direct to sellers.