How often do you guys "play" per week, month, or year? 

Finding a partner that compliments your skill set is my favorite way to play the REI game.Lack of hustle is a handicap, not age.

Shall I play their game against them?

I prefer 1st position notes but certainly understand how others like and do well with 2nds.Initially the concept was very foreign and I often thought 'wait, so I am buying someone elses debt and playing the role of the bank?"

Hey George, we should have lunch sometime, I've borrowed and lent out my fair share of private money over the years and can help you get some money in play if you like. 

As I've said in previous posts, people that are playing with their own cash can make a lot more money on most deals than those who are having to use some type of financing.And, as for ARV's and wholesalers...if you find a wholesaler who consistently (I'm talking over the course of years) brings you high-quality deals with solid ARV's & rehab estimates, then begin to trust their numbers.  

I am just starting and trying to play it safe.    

This is where the big boys and girls play.

This is where the big boys and girls play.  

I'm sure the city where the signs are placed plays a factor.