I do use brokers, lenders, intellect, and persistence though. 

They point to the fact college grads make more money, but they don't adjust for the skills required to graduate from college, such as self discipline, motivation and intellect.  

Let us explore the synergy between intellect and investment, transcending transactions to cultivate a legacy of astute real estate endeavors.

@Isi Nau@Jay HinrichsI certainly didn't expect there to be much posting in this thread.The majority of BP Investors that NEED cash flow because they can't afford to invest for Appreciation bias their minds to the stable and higher return of Appreciating Markets.I recently posted about one of my properties that Returned 160% per year ROI for 17 years to demonstrate that if you used your intellect and take into account Future Value, implying calculating Appreciation Rates and future economics, you can take advantage of it and make spectacular results.Why the prices of these assets are too high for the average Investor alone, Partnering becomes the skill needed to Invest in those markets.Instead of having a good conversation about it, postings about taking Appreciation into Account (or as I like to say, taking Future Value calculations into Account), which implies knowing your future economics, is non-existent.INSTEAD, most of the posts will boil down to a calculation on Cash Flow NOW, which is the 1st Year Cash Flow.

Just like with any business one's reputation for conducting business with fairness, honesty intellect and integrity will be the key to being successful in the ling run.

And personality and salemenship is important as well. if you just walk up and are the wet toast kind with no ability to sustain a meaningful conversation and know sales techniques like the guy who does the yellow letters talks about.. your not going to be very successful. good salesmen will out doo the intellect who cant really communicate. 

@J ScottIf you do not like my posts, then please do not bother reading them.If my subject matters are too simple or beneath your intellect, then ignore my posts.If your only intent is a personal attack on me, then please do not respond to my posts.Is this helping your creditability or to sell your books?

Being direct & blunt is great when it's done with tact and intellect.

Every single time I'm astounded by your level of experience, intellect and knowledge. 

In my opinion, the best combination is someone with the skills, drive and intellect combined with a strong formal education.