I have  a goal of buying at least one property this year. 

I'm willing to travel and just want to get an idea of any brokers out there that I might be talking with to see if we're a fit and how we might work together.  

@Martinis JacksonIRA Services Trust Company has been in this field since 1978 so they may be a good fit.

@Jess F. it is possible to do, but it might take a while to find the right lender. 

what's your goal, budget, risk tolerance...... 

For example if I wanted to find a house for purchase that fit into the category of X amount of square feet and Y number of bedrooms and Z number of bathrooms based on the homes that had the highest number of sales and\or shortest sales cycle over the last couple years, where might be a good source for info like this?

A lot depends on what his resources and experience and goals are.  

It's reassuring to hear that same message from different sources because I can accept this reality and then do something about it (i.e. push through those tough months with my eye on my long term goals).

By that I mean, is it hitting the goals that you have set for yourself within your niche/strategy (do you even know what those are yet?)?

I think what you are looking for is someone trained in the ways of real estate investing - an agent that will:Introduce you to FSBO's - Expired Listings and other real estate opportunitiesWill be your fiduciary representativeWill make offers for you on suitable real estateWho understands creative financing; delayed settlement, seller assisted financing, assignment, wholesaling, REO, tenant selection, soft money mortgages, tax salesWho will be responsive to your financial goals and a person of integrity and trustHelp with direct mail and street marketing to locate transactionsHousing and rent court marketingAbsolute aware of financial and contract clauses as well as contract engineeringCan assist in - delayed settlement - automatic extension, performance mortgages, subordination, principal mortgages, options and joint venturesAware of bidding on REO, forclosures, tax sales and public auctionsUp to speed on commercial real estate, lots and land as well as businesses with real estateHow should you treat this wonderful person (if you can find one) -They should have a commitment from in the form of a Fiduciary Buyers Brokers AgreementYour agreement to pay them a commission on any non-listed deals they bring youA bonus agreement for great deals that you closeA gas budget - or a cash payment for gas Kind words and respectTo be sincere and active with the agentRespect from youFirst class training on how to represent youSometimes an equity interest in the great deals the agent has initiatedListings when you are ready to sellYour cooperation - all your financials, tax returns and other information that will help your agent close dealsA few free lunches ----Good luck --- Charles