Run an ad in the paper ..."

Four years ago a little idea started developing: I wanted to make extra income without a second job.  

Don't just target the obvious CL ads, go after the indirect indications that there is a house to sell, such as an estate sale.

I would ad, it would be advantageous to join your local REIA (real estate investment association).

If the tenants has an extra $200 available to give you she most likely 1) is hiding under the table income from SEC 8 or 2) hasn't an add'l income producer living with her who is not on the lease. 

I put 20% down and the private lender came in with 80% and added a $20K construction loan.

I think its reasonable that anybody looking to rent is going to expect to pay a deposit or move in fee so collect the extra money. 

Start soaking up as much knowledge as you can: learn the terminology, read the articles, listen to podcasts, continue posting in forums.Find where you can start adding value for someone else and hustle.

And I don't pay anything extra.

I have been listening to the Bigger Pockets podcasts ad nauseum for several months now while I work for my father (when I'm not working with clients I keep the money flowing by doing so) and one of the main things that I have taken away from all of the guests is the majorities' response to the question of "what do you think separates successful investors from those who give up, fail, or never get started with investing?"