I’d start with a smaller deal - buy a 6 to 12 unit say - raise money from your social and professional sphere - people who know you - who you have a beer with etc.

This doesn't come cheap--these folks were making high six to seven figures depending on volume.We focused on lending to professional real estate investors--so our customers were frequent repeat borrowers. 

I’m looking to expand my network and connect with other investors, realtors, and real estate professionals—especially those who are growth and collaboration-oriented.

In neighborhood it is very important to present your self to the home owner next to you, this helps a lot to prevent misunderstandings. also this shows your professionalism.

The combination of families looking for more space, good schools, and a quieter lifestyle has been a big driver of demand.For my investments, I’ve noticed:High tenant quality: Families or professionals relocating to suburbs like Naperville and Wheaton tend to stay longer, which helps with stability.Increased competition: It’s definitely tougher to find good deals, especially in top-tier school districts.

You better buy a great place, furnish it well, and take good photographs, not to mention iterate it with professionalism.

It isn't a random search as you stated but experience and professional counsel.  

Attitude and professionalism are paramount; product knowledge next, and then there's your contact/follow-up systems.Put that together, price-test against the market, and you'll have a sustainable, constantly expanding, and very profitable venture.Good luck! 

And the Professional plan is a great space for seasoned vets who need a robust system where their team can work through the entire acquisition process. 

To me the biggest takeaway is that as real estate professionals, we always talk about location, location, location.