I was sick of losing out on deals for existing buildings, so I opted to by land to build new (less competition) How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Increased rental competition and letting people who want to rent have better access to SFH is really positive for our economy and society. 

I only had a small fraction of the total loan.

@Bill PlymouthGood points but there is a lot of competition for skilled Realtors—so walk softly and build trust first.

A few months after I got my license my then girlfriend (now wife) and I were able to capitalize on that dream (it was 2008, so we didn't have competition like buyers do now). 

Reach out directly to the seller before they reach out to an agent l, cut out the commission and the competition.

Explore the latest trends in housing within Los Angeles County, and gain a competitive edge when it comes to investing or selling assets.Dropbox access link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/ozw98moocotf19d/REPORT%2028%20Dec%202022.pdf?

If not I may just have to start a property management firm and crush the competition.

You can find a good place on the MLS that has a 4-5 bedroom (which has less competition on it), and look for a place that is for rent for awhile, meaning he is motivated to rent, he may put the rental price to high and that is why he is not renting it yet,  but for you it's a perfect opportunity. 

They provide quality job at very competitive price.