Have you looked for the Craigslist Alternatives, of which there are a few? 

Hep BP peeps,  I posted a similar thread a few years ago and am back in a similar situation.  Here in Northeast Ohio (specifically the near east side of Cleveland) SFR B/B+ rentals work great with the following model:...

Do you have a superior alternative investment earmarked? 

We will be able to save a down payment in about a year and probably truly begin our search from there.If that is the case, can anyone advise or suggest . any alternative plans to purchasing real estate without a traditional W-2 job?

@Mike Nuss  we are in Lake Oswego for the summer so will just drive over :)  And thanks for inviting me I think I have a pretty interesting presentation for the group.. will talk about alternative investments  ( real estate related) and long range pivoting.. 

Just because it's vacant doesn't mean they are interested in selling it.IF you can't find a phone number, try to find alternate addresses and send a handwritten note to all of them asking if they are considering selling.

I'm recently exploring other alternatives to the old fashioned idea of work, save, buy, rinse and repeat.

So it’s not down payment, money, it’s an alternative to conventional or institutional financing.Since the money is being provided by individuals, there is an opening for rather unconventional lending.

Not that I like FSBO at all but that might be an alternative for you here?

Good way to add value to a rental that is cost effective4) very affordable compared to alternatives alsoHope that helpsSanti