My approach has been to read as much as possible on real estate investing, and listened to the podcasts.  

I have a couple potential investors that have approached me and are willing to loan me money to do a flip or multiple flips. 

What's best approach at possibly getting this property without putting money down? 

Less than a 2 hour drive from SF and the barrier to entry (a.k.a. price) is much more approachable for someone starting in the business compared to the Bay Area or along the coast of CA.

That approach and effort will go a long way for you I'm sure.

My coworker owns many houses that he rents out, and he swears by the approach you mentioned of going with the seller's agent.

I prefer to be buying when unemployment is high and improving, rather than low and approaching where it historically starts reverting upward again (and prices flatten or decline..)..

What's your approach towards the seller when you show them your contract?

Or does anyone have any strategies on how to approach this.

An idea I am looking into is purchasing a duplex for my first place in about a year or so and I would only rent one side cause I'd live in the other half and I would love to know if this is a good way to get into real estate and i would like to know what you guys think about that approach?