I'm still trying to identify myself as a RE pro and was a bit disappointed that time spent searching for a property and researching (online) doesn't count.

I'm just putting it out there that in that particular area it varies greatly when you cross certain major streets.

Besides, you should count on a month or so of vacancy annually anyway, and having some space between tenants also allows you to do any minor repairs, etc. 

The least I've ever made on one is around $100k and the most I've ever made on one is around $500k (and counting) ... and I rode out the great recession without a scratch ... what a train wreck.

As you see, although my credit is at an upward trend and I have very little debt not counting my car, my capital is very small and has no velocity other than the monthly contributions after expenses.

I will cross that bridge once it comes. 

I'd also assume that they would tend to remain great tenants if they held a rent to own option and it would be harder for them to walk away if they were earning equity in the property so you could count on the cash.

I would write a list of all possible niches, then first cross off the ones you simply could not do.

Forth, I'll cross reference these individuals on Linked In by searching for the bank name and special assets, secondary marketing or credit risk desk.  

From many folks in the real estate community, I hear crossing that hurdle greatly increases one's understanding of the real estate market.