Just got back from driving local neighborhoods. (46203 Bates-Hendricks)I accumulated 30 Vacant Home Address.

If I can drive hopefully within an hour or two then I will go find that great deal...

Having the hardwired is great for tenants because you know that they cannot take the batteries out, but they sure do drive me nuts. 

I have income from my Army pension coming in and I know that it will sustain me while I pursue REI full-time.  

We all have to drive to Dutchess, the city or Westchester.  

Some also in Fairfield which is half an hour drive from Vallejo.Running a list of solds on MLS from the last 6 months for Vallejo shows the lowest of  $175,000 to a high of $509,000.

Maybe I won't be able to find a deal, but I hope to at least find something that is sustainable and building equity better than just 'wasting' rent.

I recommend that you take some time to get to know your farm area by driving/walking it different times of the day and signing up for automatic alerts via Redfin, Zillow, or through an agent so you can be notified of house sales in your area.I wish you the best!

I would spend some time in those areas if there are specific neighborhoods you like, drive em, note the condition of the properties, create a list, then direct mail those properties.

You ever test drive Buildium.com?