Lets assume you will, in the future which i would expect that you would, attend networking events, the superstars and superstars-to be will pay attention to you if you understood very well the language of Real Estate.

Are there some 'red flags' that I need to pay closer attention to than a deal listed on the MLS?

I used an attorney for eviction in Queens County some 20 years ago, but he's retired now and my wife was a classmate of his wife, so I think my case got better attention.

Pay special attention to the rehab budget and ARV. 

Dave, in your usual unmitigated enthusiasm for 1031s, you overlooked this statement from Mike: "our family is considering buying a lakehouse together"Someone else pointed out this problem earlier, not sure if Mike paid attention. 

Show them a good plan, a 10% return on their money in 6 months, and you might get their attention....even if it is co-signing on a mortgage at a bank to buy the property!

It's a relatively new brokerage, but it's getting attention because they have a really innovative business model that disrupts the traditional brokerage method. 

It should be something more young investors pay attention to.

I always give more attention to the people that stay in my ear or reply to the listings I send them with feedback.

Your money will possibly safer in RE than in a bank, but do pay attention to LOCATION and implications of trends in the nation because the sun is shining a little extra in some areas and a little less in others right now:)