One of the safest ways is to start out being a deal partner for a reputable wholesaler.

There are many reputable service providers available for the work we need done: plumbing, light electrical, landscaping and carpentry - but I'm always reading on BP and in real estate books about investors setting up their teams or networks to include contractors.

Jim,In my experience, after several years as a "heavy hitter", most agents stop trying, as their reputation can carry them for the rest of their careers.

Find a reputable REI club in your area and start networking.

Sounds like you are sincere but there area a lot of people who are or will be following this thread and your post was pretty brutal, and I my reputation in very important to me so a more public mention of what you said to me privately would be very appreciated :-) Regarding the deal you mentioned, we are pretty weary of "high end" deals in that area, but if you can send me an e-mail with the info, I will be happy to have my agent/assistant check it out and get back to you :-) As far as you agreeing with Bill, I'm not sure what there is to really agree about.

Well, okay, then cancel, that was the point of not bring the emd:) This is a last resort because it will no doubt sully your reputation, but it's there, and I know buyers do it.

Real estate investors have a bad enough reputation without people deliberately breaking the law. 

Once you get a good reputation, you will be surprised at just how many people want to give you money!

Which is a bandit sign:Banner sign means a sign having letters, characters or illustrations applied to cloth, plastics, paper or fabric of any kind with only such material for backing.

I didn't do it much so that I wouldn't get a nasty reputation amongst the agents.Now that I have saved up enough money, I am ready to make more serious offers.