However, I don't find the long vacancy particularly enjoyable, and I'm hoping to gain some insight and grow from the experience.Has anyone else experienced this, and what did you do to avoid it?

It will be even harder as a young person with no life experience, and particularly no experience buying real estate. 

Does anyone have a particular contact they can go to for info? 

Once I've completed these initial projects and built up some capital, my long-term goal is to transition into buy-and-hold investments in potentially more affordable markets to maximize cash flow and scale up.Right now, I'm particularly interested in investing locally here in the Seattle metro area.

Trouble is, how do you find out what that particular seller told that particular agent? 

This aligns with my interest in passive income.I realize I am not cut out for the entire REI process of consistently finding multiple properties for particular exit strategies.

@Loren Souers I'd have to run the specific scenarios with the rates and fees, but if you're OK with paying the higher closing costs, the Mortgage 1 deal looks good, particularly if you focus on CoC returns.

While I did not work with other agents or lenders for this particular deal, my professional experience ensured a smooth transaction and effective project management.

I’m particularly drawn to the mix of year-round tourist demand, the beautiful beaches, and the proximity to major attractions.That said, I’d love to hear your thoughts on how the market is performing these days.

Write it up to an education, spend some time sharpening your support team (particularly in the trades) and start thinking about how you can do it again!