I have been told that if you don't have MLS access that redfin is the best source of information for comps.

I don't have to source large deposits for a pesky lender's underwriter!!"

Your husbands profession should be the source of all the private money you will need. 

Craig's list is a great source of info for rental pricing in Federal Hill.  

The best source of private money is your own networking efforts.

Even absentee with vacant house (Chris Clothier find motivated sellers now service) gets very low motivation.What is the source of your list's motivation to be such eager sellers?

(they will see this easily on your bank account statement) When I say you need to save up for the 3.5%, you really need to save it or get it in the form of an approved source for FHA downpayment assistance.

While the argument is based solely on the potential environmental advantages, utility costs will be dramatically higher at the current electricity vs. natural gas rates in Ontario (at least in London). 

Deal sourcing and motivated seller lead generation could work if you can devote a little regular time to it.

I am pretty new on here as well but it has been a great source for info and learning so far.