You're stuck playing the game.

I do believe that investors do play an important role in rehabbing properties that have sat vacant for some time. 

I want an agent who understands that it's just a numbers game and that I may need to work with wholesalers, too. 

Anything else is a dangerous game.

I’m new to the game and in the stage of learning, so let me know what you all think.

@Bryan Dorsey I think the 2% rule is a myth unless you want to play in class D neighborhoods. 

It says that in order to get ahead in the Real Estate game and be able to scale quicker than just by saving new deposits every time, you should look at paying no more than 70% what sold comps are going for - and that includes your anticipated rehab and holding costs before renting it out (or selling it).

Are there any other ways to find lenders at my stage in the game?

I know the smart answer, but the SFR plays to my "I wanna own a house and live in it" side.

So I'm basically new to the game - I've owned 2 properties for 7 years and been renting them, but they started out as properties I bought to live inNow I'm trying to diversify and invest in RE - but I work full time and don't know a ton about the financing sideI linked up w someone who's an active flipper in the area and discussed possibly partnering on a deal.