Yet, what positive advice have any of them really given to help you?

I was thinking if I can do creative finance with seller finance deals this may be a way to help me get where I want to be.

Let me know how I can help

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Thanks in advance—your experiences will help narrow down the best fit!

Most lenders won't require an application fee and should be able to clearly lay out their financing costs, cash to close, and projected profitability for you.I hope this helps.

For example, with cash for keys you don't give that to them until they are out, BUT they may need help getting out.

Hey @Dan WardWould love to give you some advice , those are my primary markets as an investor and agent helping others. 

As for the areas to target, my goal in getting our feet wet as real estate investors--and since we plan to be living in Sac--is to find a property we can live in while renting out one or more units to help cover our housing expenses, which we can then hold and continue to rent out when we move.

There are spreadsheets that can help (I do not have one).