It seems that direct mail is the most popular way for wholesalers to find deals.

Banks and brokerages were paid up front for creating loans while being temporarily insulated from the aftermath of failed loans.The expansion of mortgage products that popularized interest-only loans, only-adjustable rate mortgages, interest-only adjustable rate mortgages, even negative -amortizing “option arm” mortgages that allowed borrowers to actually increase their loan balances, rather than paying their mortgages down.Second-lien purchase mortgages that allowed borrowers to escape both mortgage insurance and a down payment.The loosening of credit standards that allowed borrowers with poor credit, few assets, and/or no verified income to buy homes they would not be able to sustain.Public policy and presidential speeches which created a demand for home ownership even among those who would not ordinarily qualify for mortgages.

@Justin Cooper Popular area as you can imagine.

Cost of living, popularity, etc.

We experienced so much growth during the period of mass subdivisions and all that growth happened at a time when MF was less popular for middle-class households.

Hey Brian,I can relate to your frustration about these popular real estate books.

The in-law setup is extremely popular right now for both parents or older family members who move in with their children and for adult children who are moving back in with their parents but want a little bit of independence.

You may also want to explore vacation rentals on each coast in popular beach areas.  

What was popular years ago has hit a brick wall, even if they are customary in a local area, the results get into federal law, tax law and title issues at the federal level, so you can just smile at local customs. 

Cozy and AppFolio are among some popular ones.I would suggest doing some research and see if there are any property management programs that let you do a demo trial.