I was looking at getting a portfolio loan, but I think I would be better off with traditional home loans, and doing 1-3 homes at a time (that way I'm not pressed to spend all the funds quickly).Anyone can help with lender contacts that can do traditional financing?

Your buy formula is a personal choice as far as target yield.Due diligence in broad terms covers:1) marketability of note, legal, etc. documentation2) the borrower (credit worthiness, payment history)3) the collateral (equity, other liens etc.)If you are proficient with a financial calculator make sure your settings are correct for # of payments per year.to calculate "i"/yrenter "n" number of remaining paymentsPV= the price you pay for the note if its $50,000 enter - 50,000PMT= scheduled monthly payment if it's $500 enter +500FV= usually "0" if it is fully amortized (if there is a balloon enter that number +)Most people get tripped up on when to use a negative or positive number.then press "i/yr" that will be your annual expected yield

I can't say I've looked extensively in other new england markets, but based on the greater boston market I think you'd be hard pressed to find a multi under 150k.

I live in one of those places where a decent quality home, priced near appraisal sells on the same day and builders are hard pressed to keep up.

In B class areas of Minneapolis, you will be hard pressed to buy a building at a better cap than 6. 

And if your LLC has all your buddies, then dont worry the lenders have more pressing matters to attend to right now.

A- locations in Charlotte, NC, you will be hard pressed to find great cash flow in our current market because prices are elevated. 

You may be hard pressed to find a hard money eyes lender who will lend 100% unless you've already established a track record with them.

Invite the press, have them take pictures or even better give them rides....after 1 day the HOA will pony up whatever money you wish.  

Right now I need to push myself off the bench and stop analyzing.