But if set up correctly, they can be more consistent performers over time and have more predictable cash flow. 

Inspections may cost more upfront, but they can save you from significant headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.Negotiate Hard: Use inspection findings as leverage.If the HVAC is near the end of its life, negotiate a credit for its replacement.If the cast iron plumbing is deteriorating and needs replacement, ask for a credit as well.Sellers often prefer negotiating credits over doing the work themselves.To give you an example: I was once under contract for an old house priced at $170,000.

As a new real estate agent in Northern Virginia, I'm trying to make these connections, but my immediate thoughts and attemps just involve messaging these business and informing them I'm an agent and that if the respective family is in need of a realtor I'd be happy to work w/ them, but every time I do that, the response I get is "we already have a realtor" or "house was already sold or listed"........and a lot of times I am refresh to the post, so obviously I want to be "there" sooner so I can get the seller listing lead.

There are strategies that you can utilize here that can make it easier as well. 

If you can match the paint, the walls could probably be touched up. $3,000 is reasonable for a full repaint.

Retirement is not.I can understand retiring if you are old and broken.

Problem is only "RE pros" get to do it.There are 3 income classifications in the US - Active, Portfolio, and PassiveActive income is income derived from your job, or normal trade or business.Portfolio income is derived from bank instruments - stocks, bonds, etc.Passive income is income earned from investments.Active losses can wipe out both passive and portfolio income, but it doesn't work the other way around.Portfolio (capital) losses are limited to $3,000 annually.Passive losses can only be offset by passive gains.Real estate rental income by its nature is deemed passive per IRC Sec 469One way to get around it is to become a pro - spend more than 750 hours or 1/2 your time in real estate.But most folks aren't real estate pros.

Quote from @Tyler Fremarek: Many people claim you can invest with little or no money.

They can finance the land, but not the mobile home.

Numerous ways assets can, legally and illegally be placed beyond the reach of judgement creditors.