The in-office email blasts of listings from fellow agents in the firm keeps me abreast of great investment property listings even before they hit the MLS.A couple of cautionary notes about the agent track:1) There is a significant startup cost associated with becoming a Realtor.

Make sure to check out Salt Lake Real Estate Investors Association (slreia.com)

Do you have to capitalize all construction (labor and material) expenses associated with a rehab until it is sold or can you deduct them right away as they are paid?

Would investing in areas like Hemet and Barstow, so colorado, have an association with older houses, and possible more upkeep/rehabbing efforts into these property types you recommend?

Is anyone surveying current tenants wants/needs/impressions?

As you're starting out its important that recognize what makes a deal and then as your skills levels improve due to your greater experience, investment in additional training and education, and your association with successful peers, you'll be able to work on and profit from opportunitues that don't appear to have merit.Also, you may have to "touch" a lead numerous times before they show any interest and respond.

@Faiz Khan Have you joined your local REIA (Real Estate Investment Association).

Where can I go in Phoenix / Scottsdale to start learning about investing (Arizona Real Estate Investors Association??)?

There are 2 Real Estate Investor Association meetings here every month.OKCreia is ran by Donavee Wilkerson and it meets every 2nd Thursday of every month at 7 pm.The other meeting the 1st Thursday of every month is Millionaire Possibilities with Robert Elder.Its very important to go there and network with other investors.

@Kevin fox go to the real estate schools and associations.