I see a lot of newer agents if they don't have a warm market or sphere to tap into.. they will get on a big producers team.. this can jump start you.out our way agencies have lead creation systems and will literally hand you web leads for listings or sales.My wife had taken a few year hiatus and to kind of jump start ( her normal business is referrals) but she wanted to work some leads and get going and it worked very well she made many sales and got a few listing which in this market is simply money in the bank. find your niche.. and remember 95% of agents all try the same thing.. you may want to specialize.. and commerical agents though dog tough to start if you make it.. its a really good business once your established.

There are definitely major differences - PM's that are absolutely focused on communication, are more hands-on, etc. 

Sounds like you have a Professional Tenant on your hands.

A successful note investor has a focused approach and narrows its market to a handful of states especially when starting in the business.  

Since you have more cash on hand after the deal the next purchase you make will be easier.

The subject at hand is the house that I am currently living in. 

I do not, however, like to ask for a helping hand without offering one in return.

Are there only a handful of buyers getting the majority of the deals out there? 

It is doable if you're willing to talk to a handful (at least) of banks. 

---***EDIT:  I don't have the $150k in-hand.