You do run the risk here of the tenants not paying and that's more money you'll be chasing them for. 5.

However chasing after agents to find the deals I'm looking for can be tough. 

That was my understanding as well, don't chase as it will cost more.Would you know if there is any free means to report the default to credit bureaus?

I feel like I need to decide on a strategy to focus my time and efforts wisely, as opposed to chasing both strategies half heartedly.Any thoughts or tips are appreciated!

Still many willing/able buyers chasing very little inventory. 

not chase.

By doing this, I don't have to chase my $$ for undone jobs. 

What for sure you don't want to do is to bet the farm right off the bat with high risk (whether you realize the risk or not), put your financial future in the hands of another (whether you realize it or not), and chase yield or returns in hope that all will go well according to those who would tell you only what you would like to believe.

Many investors chase the dollar and try to go into riskier areas.

The important thing is to stick to the lease, know your laws, and don't let bad behavior slip through the cracks, otherwise you will be chasing down rent payments all the time.