Cold calling works but the challenge with that is finding the actual phone numbers since most people have cell phones now.

As a read the posts in this thread I see a common challenge of new, wanna be investors:They fall in love with the dream and not the process.

I also really like a challenge, which I feel is missing right now.  

Investing out of your area can be challenging, but it can be done and done successfully.  

I think the 2nd property is likely going to be the most challenging to acquire, although if the mortgage on the first place can be covered with rents, it should be possible.  

Ideally someone who's defended their decisions in front of the IRS and won.

"once you add value, you get paid" determining how exactly to do that at times can be a challenge. 

If you do chances are you will be the defendant in a court action, even though the tenant isn't doing what she is supposed to.

However, from a risk management standpoint, one lender knows all your business and one lender could face challenges.

I stepped away from the forums for a few days to work on real deals.Re-reading this thread and your posts in particular, I think your biggest challenge is that you automatically get associated with all the other would-be real estate people.Part of the problem is your message.