We all have our areas of expertise and areas we need advice on and finding your weak areas should be your focus.I would keep a notepad and write down or type and save them and keep adding to them, research the answer myself or ask these at the next REI meeting.For someone doing buy and holds you must understand the 50% rule.

Direct Mail Advertising Weaknesses: 1.

Don't these put the buyer in a weak position, too?

I am wondering why you allowed yourself to be in a relatively weak position by executing an option contract instead of a purcase contract?

So weak borrowers (no experience, no cash) are going to have a very tough time finding any money.

So, any "unecessary" contingencies like "finance qualification" and "inspection period" will simply make your offer weak.

Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses and see which type of investing corresponds best. 

No cash or little cash, stuff stays in other folks names or you have weak control via a lease and option or just an option and  the deal and the seller's well being (the most important person in real estate to be take well care of is the seller) is more at risk.  

I would also be willing to team up with anyone that may be weak in the construction end or just looking to expand and has the ability to find deals.

My real estate experience is a little weak.