We used to go knock on doors for people facing foreclosure about 8 years ago.One person was walking up and down the street drinking booze and even when shown the notice said it wasn't him or his house even though he started walking from his house when we got there.In real estate investing be surprised by nothing and expect everything.

Just like you can't drink a slimfast shake for breakfast and then have a whole large pizza and a 2 liter bottle of coke for lunch and expect to lose weight; you also can't just put up three "we buy houses" bandit signs and send out 50 yellow postcards and then not follow up an any leads or even worse not get any leads and then give up because you didn't become a millionaire overnight.I'm not advocating gurus.

We've got coffee on-site and folks could bring drinks if this ends up being a happy hour event.

Perspective tenant: Oh, my credit got hurt when I was drinking I pay my bills now.Me: Oh really, did you quit drinking?

Last weekend, went up to wine country in Healdsburg for a bday party; delicious drinks and food, and relaxing.

There are many great people, and great people throughout history (including many of our presidents) who are and were smokers.While I am going to be as polite as possible, I very strongly disagree with your last paragraph and will tell you there are some things you should just keep to yourself.How is a cigarette any different then the sugary caffeinated has all kinds of things in it you don't know about drinks they serve at starbucks?

Move in with a relieve and sleep on their couch for free (or $100 a month) as long as you can, and help out around the house as needed.Cut the grass, cook dinner now and then, fix the washing machine when the belt jump off, etc...If out have to eat out, eat at Taco Cabana (or similar good nutrition for cheap price) and always get the specials--no soda just drink free water.Get a second job or  temp job and work as much as you can and save up more than the needed next down payment.Do not spend money any new things, just save it all.Maybe a year or so of that will put you in CASH positive situation.Cash is King--Get Some--and get free,Good Luck!

walking around a virtual campus to sit in a fake auditorium " = Cheaper virtual drinks and food.

I was busy meeting chicks from Myspace and Hotornot and going out and drinking 3-5 nights a week with my friends. 

Monster Energy drinks maybe?