It's true, Banks and Credit Unions will not provide DU's as they are audited much more than brokers and lenders. 

Hi, my name is Shawn and I’m totally new to real estate investing.

Im down to put the work in but want to know 2 things...what would be the most efficient and effective way to use my time to get houses under contracts and to close deals. 

My wife and I are currently saving for our first property to rent out.

I would think long and hard about the positives and the negatives .. and if you wish to go forward you got some great advice above.. good luck. 

Coming out from the Advertising industry in the city for the past 10 years i'm now situated out east on the north fork of Long island and looking for make moves in this region in real estate.Looking to connect with likeminded people and start to grow a network and community around me.

Looking forward to learning and sharing with the community.

To get quick and dirty numbers you can use 5% vacancy, 10% Maintenance and 8% CapEx... assuming the building is in OK shape. 

I'm trying to confirm my understanding of a less straight forward capital gains scenario than the one-time purchase and sale most deals involve.Essentially 100% interest in a condo was acquired over time, as each joint tenant passed away, leaving 1 sole tenant who gained full ownership by rights of survivorship.I've gotten differing opinions from different professionals and am trying to understand the calculation of the basis and the final capital gains  tax that would be due myself so I can spot bad advice and understand deals.Assumptions:A condominiumNo depreciation has ever been taken by any owner.No 1031 exchange.No expenses or improvements.

Im a new comer that want to learn and understand all aspects of real estate.