We had personal savings and put down 5% with a conventional loan.

I personally only buy STR'S where I would want to go on vacation. 

Clearly I'm traumatized.The lesson I learned is its not MY money to be cheap with, its the property's money which should come from its repair reserves fund.Now instead of having 1 person do it all and stress me out, I go straight to the specialist for the task.

If you can't keep control of your personal finances, you are highly unlikely to succeed in real estate investing.

It can also handle inbound customer service calls & converses like a person rather than a robot.

Networking with industry experts can provide valuable insights and personalized services.

Find one in person.

Call all the auction companies in your area and get on their mailing listing (make a personal contract with auctioneer associates - let them know that you are a buyer)  they will email you a list of up-coming foreclosure auctions.Your benefit by getting to the owner early, is that you may be able to 1.take over the mortgage by making up the back payments 2. get a deed signed, 3. take over the existing mortgage 4. advise the owner how to delay or stop the mortgage foreclosure 5.

I personally found I’m good at it if it’s a simple job, normal easy walls, but hire out if its 2-story height, painting cabinetry, wood windows etc as they are a all a big pain.

Whenever someone files for bankruptcy, there is an automatic stay of all legal proceedings against that person.