Having MLS access is definitely necessary, but you don't need to be licensed to get that (any realtor can setup a property search for you).

You can search for LP’s on the Official Records search.

Search for and buy property.Instead of doing one extreme thing versus the other, set goals and learn how to balance, manage and hedge against your liabilities properly.

I can tell you from hundreds of my clients perspective.they don't want to have the burden and work that goes into being a landlord.. they want mail box money and more passive investment that is secured by the same asset that a landlord owns.. there is a reason those banks have those big shinny buildings.. its massively profitable and done right less risk in many cases of being a landlord or at least let me say a ton less work.. your not dealing with the day to day.. even if you have PM you have to manage them.My note buyers are almost all experienced landlords and as their days of landlord burn out come to fruition they switch to being the bank.. keep in mind unless the house is sold for cash.. everyone buying a rental has two steps  equity and debt  IE their equity and the bank or  lenders debt.Along with shorter term holds.. and if done right no cash calls.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Search the owner name, work backwards thru property appraiser/clerk if court site.

Sorry for the rant, I'm just hoping to get some out of the box ideas or to be called an idiot and to calm down :) Thanks in advance everyone!

Do you suggest anywhere to start searching for multi-family fixers in a decent neighborhood north of Dallas?

Search through BP for asbestos.

I am a new real estate entrepreneur searching for multi family homes in SE Michigan.