If the below links do not answer them, then, please revisit and post the questions.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of book recommendations.The book link below will get you started.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

What's the downside to buying the building, and renting to students compared to a massive conversion product to sell units individually to people likely to rent them?

It's just a step in a new direction so trying to tread carefully and I don't know many people personally in the retail clothing business.

I run a full spectrum real estate business; I hold, wholesale and retail.

@Kevin Siedlecki if sellers need to sell they won't care about your credit If they just want to sell they will not sell it cheap enough for it to be a good deal You are looking for people that are motivated sellers Not people that just say they are motivated and then ask retail value for their house 

1. upload 3 to 5 craigslist ads per day, change the wording to suit the type of buyer you think would best fit into the neighborhood2. have an open house each weekend on a Sunday for a couple of hours, make sure its well advertised3. stage the house4. make sure the landscaping and curb appeal is beautiful5. make sure the utilities are on in the property and the air is on for retail homebuyers6. network with people who work with retail buyers, if there is a buyers assistance class/event locally go there with plenty of flyers.7. network with your local real estate investment groups, there are always agents around you work with real buyers

It's good to see that you have a strategic plan and willing to give up your evenings and weekends in an effort to achieve your goals.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

As for the mortgage vs owning the home in their name, I think most retail sellers would consider their home to be theirs in their name even if they have a mortgage. 

There is a lot of retail in this area and there are even new commercial developments going in nearby.There is a lot of demand to get to this area of town because of those retail services and it is relatively close to Germantown road, Walnut Grove road, Highway 240 and Highway 40.  

Taking action is massively important, but being strategic is equally important.