Another method besides mentioned above for CA residents, though very convoluted and many steps is to put those properties into land trusts for privacy of ownership.

need help to make sure i have the right steps ( basic format) -find cash buyers & their criteria -drive for dollars , organize info into my laptop-find comparable prices to what its ARV could be - call the owners & pray that they are motivated & find out if they owe anything - find a contractor to help me estimate the rehab costs -offer -pray that they sign -go to title company ( & say what?

Self management can be tricky if you do not take the right steps to protect yourself.

He went on and on and then some other neighbors stepped in and took him into their house.

My next steps (that I've identified), is to start writing down goals (we've discussed them, just haven't written them down), develop a business plan, and figure out if I need to start a business for this venture now (and what structure that will be - we will not be taking on partners initially, I think, so it's just me and my husband, so SMLLC?)

What is the next step after getting your RE license?

I would rather put my money into other investments (stocks, peer-to-peer lending, etc) that consistently return 8+% and look into other alternate methods of gaining experience. 

My main concern is that we will have to take a step back or a pause in investing but want to eventually upgrade housing.  

Hi.I purchased foreclosure properly at court house steps. paid full and its in the process of getting distribution and deed. the property is winterized by bank1) How soon can i get turn the water on?

It is still the main method I use to find deals.