@Nicholas HaltermanMany folks use something called Hard Money loans.

A lot of folks see the major cities as the drivers of economic growth. 

For me it's that simple but I'm sure folks with more properties or properties in different areas have better systems than I do!

For example, I have seen many folks part of Bigger Pockets community build their rental portfolio through obtaining financing that they wouldn't otherwise be able to obtain if it was not for their W-2.

there are so many forum posts on BP from folks who bought a random property in a 'low cost' market and got crushed by deferred maintenance or challenging tenants.i looked at a few of your other posts. 

. :)  I think folks that followed that advice have lost significant amounts of capital.. of course not all .. but if your one of the beginners who drank that cool aid and got fubared can set you back years.

I know that a lot of folks want to be more hands-on in properties they own and that this isn't a model that will be a fit for everyone.

I've come to Bigger Pockets to learn some tips, tricks, and hints about real estate investment and to connect with folks who have similar goals. 

I know he's considered the guru around these parts and has educated many a folk.

Yes time and place for everything, but also just because your buddy does it does not mean its right. yup would have to be a knuckle head to believe that 50 a month for life is better than 1 mil today.. its why folks that win the lottery take the cash..