@Sharon EvansSorry for disappearing... haven't been as active on BP the past couple of weeks.A lot of people recommend the BP Directory, but I've noticed that it's missing a lot of lenders. 

More media exposure, HGTV, etc have increased the demand of "why don't I try that" people so prices on active markets have increased so it appears margins are decreasing. 

Also think about a really loud interior activated motion activated siren set outside the unit. 

I would even look at the active rental listings and what others are asking for, the conditions, and look at the days on market.

The best way to get started may be to look for active wholesalers in the area and offer to shadow them or be of service to them in some way.

Do you really want to monitor tenant volunteer activity and reduce your monthly income?  

I also very actively work to source off-market deals when possible. 

I see some pretty bad reviews and a little concerned whether to purchase/finance with them or seek my own financing 

There has got to be some requirement of accepting help and working to solve problems whatever they are in exchange for the help,  and those who won't take the trade should move along and accept consequences for any illegal activity until they see fit to change their minds.What I don't get is that the city has a lot of surplus land -- and a lot of people with a lot of great ideas to quickly build a class of housing someplace between a glorified garden shed and a 200-300K or more per unit "affordable" housing complex.   

I am seeking to use the BRRR strategy to purchase the property with private money eventually doing a cash out refinance and paying back the private money lender.