I've been following the build-to-rent method for some time and even lived in one for 2 years.

This would help you get going.You might be able to make these a  little nicer and force appreciation and a little higher rent.Either way rents will go up over time and the mortgage with remain constant.Maybe even make one unit a STR which could see higher income.I'd be ok with break even or a little bit negative on a Quad given you have 4 properties in one.If you're only breaking even you still have depreciation and other tax write off to help you out.I usually make people 3 offers.

Hey, even a broken clock is right twice a day, right. 

Even tried craigslist and local paper once.

I hope I added a little more clarity, I know that even in this post I am going back and forth.Thank you.

Even if you personally have just a modicum of design aesthetic sensibility, after reviewing 20 or 30 properties, you will quickly be able to get a sense of the winners.My 2 cents,Mike

At $10/hr thats $1600/mo so even if you spend $5k - get one deal its paid for itself.

Neighborhoods to invest in is a more subjective topic as that is often dependent on the type of investment you're interested in, your price point and even the type of tenants, if that's the route your going,  that you are trying to attract.

I have lived in Truckee for over 23 years and understand the pain you can go through dealing with a local government where the answer you received on Monday is different than the answer you receive on Tues, Wed, Thur & maybe even Friday if anyone is working.

@Vince Scipione  This is very solid advice to keep it separate and I agree with you, the only reason I was even thinking of it was to help me raise the initial funds for my first investment.