I'm currently trying to find my first deal to take action on either in my area in Indiana or NYC (Indiana preferred for a first flip) but I'm not sure how to find a real estate agent that is investor friendly!

To clarify, I would keep buy and hold this property So I would prefer to stay away from hard money loans.

That is what I was afraid of, but didn't want to leave any stone unturned so to speak.I have family I could borrow money from, but I would've prefered to go about it alone if it was possible.

I'm spending a month in the Aiken area and am looking for recommendations for REIAs or meetups in the area.I can look up the REI club listings, etc, but I'm looking for your impressions and preferences of the various clubs in the area, and why you like a particular group.Thanks!

Once you decide on which you prefer to pursue network with people in your local market that can help you accomplish your goals (for example network with lenders if you need financing, title companies, perhaps wholesalers, other local investors, inspectors, etc).

This happens all the time, is not unethical or criminal, and you should not file a complaint.Here's the mentality of the other side of the transaction:1) Man, it sucks that I need to short sell my home, especially now that debt forgiveness is no longer protected in 2014 due to expired legislation.2) I had better market it properly to make sure the short sale is approved.3) I had better vet the buyer properly to make sure they close the deal.4) I would prefer a cash offer to a financed offer.5) Cash offer from someone I know is accepted.That's it.

I am just starting out but from what ive read i can get a loan on a cheap house with 5k as a down payment.. what would be a smart choice for me/invest now and work on renovation?

(technically, they get an 8% preferred return and I get a 6% developer fee if all goes to plan, then we split any upside after that).In your situation, if you and your two buddies all put in cash, and all have some sort of management/decision making roles, you could divide the ownership and upside according to your capital contributions.

The latter is usually something I don't prefer, yet that's my preference.

In this type of loan (balloon), your note is due and you have a choice either pay off the mortgage or refinance.Does it help Dean?