They know who is land banking, who is needs an exchange property, and who the players are that will eventually build.

But when I am at these events I can tell right away that the majority have no clue and will never do anything.. but there is always those 10 to 20 students that walk out of there with the knowledge they learned and become players.. its just like anything real estate related.. 100% of people try RE sales or wholesaling and 50 to 90% fail straight away.. you have guys out there selling how to wholesale programs for 10 to 40k.. and that is even worse than the flipping guys.  

Also, how many players are there in the game?

I don't negotiate short sales for a living but one of the key players in the deal that commonly gets forgotten is the mortgage insurer.

Honesty, competency and a good business reputation are qualities to look for IMO.I don't think most investors should be looking for someone who takes orders, you don't want a "yes" man, you need someone who knows more than you do and who will assist, be a player, and keep you from making mistakes!

By the way did you know that Tom Vu turned into a professional poker player a few years ago?   

Ask other real estate people (real estate agents, mortgage brokers, real estate investors) in your network on who the real players are in your market (they are the ones who can close on real estate transactions quickly (one week or so)3.

My bet is they get told that with looming huge shadow inventory it is their best interest (and the taxpayers) to work with any players that help them move that inventory.

It's must be nice to be a huge player and being able to sell your unit's for $20 a pop!

My situation: I'm currently a minor league baseball player - look up our average income and you'll be severely disappointed - and I am looking to begin purchasing homes between $30-$60k.