I plan to fix it up while living in it, rent the other units/basement and flip it after a year or two or hold it as a rental.Also, I am game for any networking or meetup opportunities around Portland or online, if you are experienced or not I am always interested in grabbing coffee or a beer.

Was it a yard sign, online etc.??

In 2-3 years you won't miss the 5k check you never got, but I would venture to bet you'd be happy to sell that house.

Is there a company or service you use that you can input the data and then have the owner paid on a monthly basis and it track the info in a similar fashion as if you were checking your online balance at a bank?

Very early, you probably need a small number of investors who are willing to make a very risky bet to bankroll the upfront work.

I called every bank in my area, spoke to the local credit unions, and I explored online too.I agree the insurance seems high.

Probably your best bet is a small local bank or credit union that keeps their loans in house.

My primary goal is a diversified real estate investment portfolio while simultaneously providing viable real estate solutions in the areas where I operate.Stumbled across BiggerPockets several months back during online research and truly believe the content here is solid.

I don't even use online listings.

Ian did you use an online lender, local mortgage broker, or a direct contact at a local bank nearby??