So glad you've already plugged into the Bigger Pockets podcast - that was a huge source of education for me when I first started.You mentioned that you had solid mortgage brokers lined up, but if I could add from experience...I would recommend that you talk to multiple lenders (banks, mortgage brokers, credit unions, etc.)

I agree you definitely do not want to start with the Auctions.Regarding Direct Mail Google "Direct Mail for Real Estate Investors"  and search right here in Bigger Pockets for reviews on direct mail vendors. 

Go thru all the Forums here in Bigger Pockets and use whatever you like as your ideas and you will also find as many guest speakers as you like. 

Single families aren't a bad way to start, but if you're wanting to get into bigger units, there's nothing stopping you to go for the big one right away.

I'm relatively new to Bigger Pockets but I am a "value guy" -- LOVE unlocking value where it is going undiscovered.

Now I want to buy a bigger property.

Hi Everyone,  I've been watching Bigger Pockets for about a year now but this is my first post.  

I came across Bigger Pockets and was instantly intrigued, not only by the way they explained real estate investing to a newbie, but by the challenge it can create creatively and mentally.

So for smaller guys, you really don't need to be exact to make really good profit, and for bigger companies they have a ton of experience and analysis infrastructure they don't want to trade the liability for the charity.

I'm asking for Profit and Loss statements, actual utility bills for 24 months, verifying property taxes on county assessors website, want the exact rent rolls and leases, and will call my insurance agent for the rate I'll be paying.