What we've done so far is purchase bandit signs (old school method) and plan to put those out this weekend.

What funding method besides traditional mortgage makes since when buying a rental that needs improvement but there are no comps and the values haven’t been increasing much.

I created spreadsheets to analyze all types of costs and methods of ownership and comparison tables... and I actually joined this community to learn how to use REI to help fund my aviation dreams.  

Most mentors are good for getting people energized - Good mentors work with you step by step to get a house or two and teach you how to move along on your own - Great mentors teach how to buy and manage the properties, set up "systems & methods", along with providing other high level contacts, tax planning, asset protection & generational wealth, strategies for changing markets, and changes in the law.     

I would also really appreciate any advice that anyone can share for alternative methods of purchasing real estate with low money down, in my specific area.

I've got all sorts of BP vids lined up to enhance my knowledge on how to get the financing for continually adding new units, and may get everything I need there, but wanted to also ask for the methods you used to get started.Right now I have 0 units.

Enemy method for sure 

Condos in DC are a huge buyers market, and prices are trading at 2017/2018 prices in much of the city.

Hey Jakarri,Absolutely possible, however, I have really only seen two methods works successfully:1) A property manager relationship is boots on the ground for you.

Either way, you should spend your efforts on one or both of these methods.