The idea of a lead gen service makes finding motivated sellers SOUND so easy, but I was just at a networking event and talking to a local player who was successful before and after using their service, but said he "lost his shirt" with them. 

I am trying to find out who the "Big Players" in Dallas are.

In no time you'll be slammed with enough keyword alerts to give you a solid idea on the biggest players & markets that are represented by members here on the site.

With institutional real estate investments, the advice of an expert who works in the industry every day, knows all the players and their track records, and performs due diligence on each offering is a great benefit to you and comes to you at no cost.

You will also learn the players in your area who may also be willing to coach/mentor you.

Or do the TK guys play in that market...We don't have a lot of strong turn key players here.  

We have also had the most success by including our local partner as an equity player in the properties we own.

Fortunately, there are several Canadians present who can help out with questions about financing, regulation and taxation here at home.You might want to read some of @J Scott's posts and see how a misspent youth as a professional poker player can land you in the midst of a flipping business.

It's great to meet some of the local players.

Its pert near impossible unless you have millions and want to buy your way in by making no money on the first 10 or so .. as you prove to the cash up regulars that your a player