Good luck and hope to hear more about your success!

I feel like my "circle of people" really needs an expansion and improvement and I want someone with more experience in the field I want to be in to really help me gain myself to success!

These marketers would have the novice investor believe that the narrow focused “education” they provide combined with the “holy grail” formula (wholesaling, subject to, flipping, lease option, discounted note purchase, etc.) is most, if not all, anyone needs to become “independent” and successful, usually by month 12.

I could never guarantee that every student would find a deal but we have so many success stories and people have switched from investing in MF, MHP, Storage to office, retail, medical, industrial etc.   

If there is not a local real estate investor group, consider starting one.To Your Success!

How does a new real estate agent become a successful real estate agent?

SF is a very unique market, and actually may be a great time to buy right now, especially if they can successfully turn the city around. 

Looking for success stories or other experiences , positive or negative, range of costs, etc.

You'd be surprised to learn that someone living in a rental or apartment, that has a family and is a successful small businessman, has the money and is willing to take that deal.

@James Hamling I agree, I didn't see where Ivan talked much about his team and networking contacts but for me those are most important to me being able to stay relevant and successful in my local market.