During this time, we have 0 real world experience.

I am new to the world of REI & a late comer. 

The seller is already in first position and in a perfect world I'm not refinancing out of those terms, and I'm not giving up equity to a money partner. 

My guess is many of these programs are older and the note world has changed drastically.

hi @Alvin TaverasMortgage Broker here, i've been referring clients out to Credit Unions for their HELOCs. we have a handful of lenders that can do them, but i'm finding the juice is not worth the squeeze in the broker/ wholesale world.

Originally posted by @Michelle Winberry:@J Scott Kim's analogy was about accessing an Experienced Mentor, if you get that free, awesome, if you don't have that luxury then an investor does what is appropriate, get one and pay for it....Just to clarify, in the business world, mentors are typically unpaid -- they are people you have a personal relationship with and who help you because they have a vested interest in your success, not in a monetary reward. 

If you're 75 or 85 or 95, big lump sum to take that year long round the world cruise might be pretty fun. 

Finding a deal is great, but a) no broker/owner will actually award you the deal without having surety that you can close (so without a strong network, you will never actually get a deal) and b) even if you find the best deal in the world AND have it tied up, the timelines are too short to be able to start building your network from there.What I would do is get a job in real estate to learn the ropes while being paid.  

I know that - but what I was thinking was simply: well, if the housing authority will pay $1,550 for a 3 bedroom, why would any landlord in the world list it for less?

Great photos make a world of difference in providing confidence for your potential resident.