I'd love to hear any tips, advice, or similar experiences anyone has.

Although I've done a few deals, I dont believe I'm an "investor" since I'm so new at it, less then 1 year.I would love to just connect with others that have experience in lease options, sandwich lease options, rental properties, wholesaling, fix n flips, or any similar goals.Feel free to leave a comment and lets see how we can help each other and others by striking a convo here!!

Hey Kayla,I too live in the Minneapolis area and I am currently in a similar situation.

I was working on a 32 unit in North Carolina, about a similar price point, and our insurance quote was around $8k a year. 

I would be surprised if they don't do some sort of hybrid realtor listing system similar to auction.com.

Is it possible we can see sales and cheap deals as similar to what happened in 2008?

They tend to find good deals you're not as likely to lose on, but for the margin they make you could source similar deals yourself.If you need a good GC who's cheap and smart and shows up and is available right away and is true to his/her word...good luck.  

They are some of the most capable carpenters in the world.I have a ex-roommate that was in a very similar way from an auto accident. 

Anybody have had similar experience?

Not on a major street.A similar renovated home down the street just sold for $810K!