I transferred entrepreneurial paths because although startups are exciting, I did not identify with the ideals of my mentors and venture capitalists.  

You're likely missing out on the peak of demand when supply is limited.I've found more success in identifying hotels in the area that are of comparable quality and slightly adjusting my rates based on my amenities (view, etc).  

It might help if you can identify the huckster, as well.

During the closing period, a scam artist initiated contact with the closing Attorney and identified themselves as me.Once they had created a communication thread with the closing they were then able to subsequently email me and act as if they were the closing attorney.

Misc Fees not identified- $1500 7.

Welcome, @Vic Chapman.Based on the criteria you identified, many of the homes you are buying could in theory go Fannie Mae -- assuming your timelines will allow for that.

A colleague of mine suggested I sign up for Bigger Pockets, so I can post opportunities I have listed, identify new opportunities and network with other industry practitioners.  

However, in their defense, there are lots of folks who identify themselves as "Investors" and the vast majority of them go nowhere - so some agents are just playing the odds on this one.Your first challenge is to track down an agent that does not suck.

Utilize the inspection for two things:  (1) Make sure you identify the major risks with the house so you know how much you need to spend on the repairs and decide if the deal still makes sense, and (2) use the inspection findings to negotiate the price down, either in the form of lowered price or repair allowance, or just have them address issues before closing.  

@Ivan Lai Trying to identify a property and work backward to find the note holder and buy the note is not a common model.