I try to use it to track down investments but find a lot of spammers and people trying to sell properties thru second and third party connections.

So your track record, net worth, and down payment will all be factors in the approval process.  

You should seek recommendations on a quality firm with expertise in the field and a track record of providing excellent support for the plan beyond just the initial setup.

I would try to make the goals quantifiable.Example: Meet 5 new RE investors this month, automate our expense tracking process, and etc. 

I have decided to just stay on track with my direct mail and try a few other channels as well.  

They also could be new enough that they do not have any track record.Depending on the State of KY laws check to see what are the regulations concerning lending money.Ask you contact person for a letter from their bank saying they are in good standing.You have reason to be concerned.Why not borrow locally rather than internationally?

So be sure to track these expenses and keep receipts. 

Hi Kimberly,I am a CPA and realtor myself, having a real estate license is beneficial because having access to MLS will provide you with solid understanding of current market values in your area so long as you diligently track it and will make it easy to see available properties if you purchase through the MLS. 

 :)  it was also a key reason why I had a private equity firm offer to invest around $200 million with me to buy properties at the auction (which I also turned down but that's another story).I wrote it out of necessity because "back in my day" (crap, I'm starting to sound like Jay, LOL) there was no way to track these sales...everyone else was constantly shuffling through multiple file folders and legal pads trying to find info on what they were bidding on while I had one sheet of paper folded up in my pocket that told me everything I needed to know for everything going that day.  

Wishing you good luck on tracking down the owner and getting the deal.