Even just entering the listings or vacancies might get you very conversant in the local market.Then you could also make some key contacts, learn the process, and maybe even find your first deal (a client may be willing to owner finance a rental, for example).If you are handy, you might try and work with a firm that does apartment turnovers (make ready) or even as a laborer for a remodeling contractor (especially one that does flip work for others or on their own)--to get the full hands on view of how to get apartments ready to rent or flips ready to sell.Maybe the best hands on way to work in the space is to buy your first rental; maybe your first or next home could be a duplex or single family with an accessory apt.Best of Luck.

@Joe Armstrong You are saying that the properties you have found to date are only doable for you if you occupy them since that is the only way you can arrange acceptable financing?

I work in architecture, and many of the contractors I work with are searching high and low for qualified labor.  

I've got a few subject properties I would like start getting bids on, to make offers ASAP.Looking for someone who's responsible, works in a structured and professional manner and environment, and can manage multiple jobs and job sites at once.Reply or PM me if this fits the criteria that you're looking or if there's someone you know or can refer.Thanks,Joe

WATCH OUT... don't get stuck.. some rights people can't sign away (ahead of time) and you'll be in court trying to defend why you moved all of Joe Blows stuff out, re-rented the apartment while he was lying in a hospital in Italy while on vacation and came home 10 days late to find he'd been robbed....

Let's grab a cup of joe sometime! 

My point is I can't replace my income tomorrow, all I can do is take the next step and for me that is getting to know the people I have yet to meet, joining the local REIA, attending local meetings, especially the one @Joe Fairless runs here in town.

Is there any database online with materias and labor costs?

Labor will be extra. 

@Joe Villeneuve Huh?