My experience with my parents estate is that a home can be a challenge to relationships.

If you stay active on the forums you will eventually build relationships with other members and perhaps you can find a mentor...if not, you have many right here on the forums!

Hello Dawn,Those are excellent ideas.I have been practicing crunching numbers for the 50% rule.

Kris Ned Excellent questions, and well thought out.

In my day job, I am a financial analyst and have pretty advanced excel skills, so if anyone would ever like some help in putting together proformas, budgets, or property analysis spreadsheets, let me know.

After dealing with a closing attorney selected by the buyer's mortgage company I was reminded yet again how excellent my attorney is.  

Raymond's post above is also excellent advice, in addition to the numbers and financing on the purchase + rehab, you have to make sure it will be a good rental as well.- Tom

etc...Check out Danny Johnson's excellent call script on his blog:http://www.flippingjunkie.com/2012/15-essential-questions-you-should-be-asking-sellersDepending upon the answers, you can then match what you do to what they need.

Definitely, look into Real estate sales training as it will also provide you with an excellent education on how to find and utilize OPM (other people's money).

Excellent post Annette Hibbler.