So far I have emailed multiple properties that are for rent and asked the owner if they were willing to sell.What I plan on doing is putting up a couple signs, couple ads on craigslist and looking in the newspaper.

Here is a quick list of things to look for when DFD:•Missing Window Blinds•Dead / Overgrown Lawn•Bad Roof•Lots of Trash and Cars with Filthy Windows–No License Plates, Flat Tires•Broken Windows•Lots of Deferred Maintenance / General Disrepair•Peeling Paint•Overgrown Trees–Lots of Tree Litter on Roof•Fire Damage•Graffiti•Owner Board Up•Notices Posted on Doors / in Windows•Uncollected Mail / Newspapers / Phone Books in Driveway/Mailbox•General AbandonmentWrite down the address & take notes, go home and research owner info/mailing address using local title company, send letter.

Check the newspapers for auctions make note of who is doing it they will have a separate website usually several players do many of them.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

Newspaper, sign, Realtor, property managerOnline?

Hi @Jeff Rabinowitz Investors do still search the newspapers for deals, opportunities and other investors to work with.

I'm really curious about this...probably because I'm a professional photographer :) Having seen so many properties online, in newspapers, and free magazines, I have to wonder about the quality (or lack) of the photos of these properties.

Look in the newspaper, under the section, Investor properties, for these hard money people.

You can also check out Daily Journal Commerce Newspaper, djc.com.....they have an online subscription that lists probate, foreclosure, etc. for a fee or go to a local library and read it.

You can also do a search of local newspapers for articles on subdivisions being approved. 

I saved money to be able to buy bandit signs and post newspaper ads which in turned help me to wholesale properties.