Review some of the old podcasts, the ones that are of interest to you, go into the learn section and pick and choose; attend the NYC meet ups' , they are announced on these pages or use your "keyword" tool to keep informed.

Due to the era that we live in, with technology and the internet, you can run 90% of your business from home which means being able to use communication tools like the phone to communicate with sellers and email to exchange documents.The key is to know the deal and ask a lot of questions and let the seller talk.

Not storing boxes, files, and personal personal stuff, but power tools, hurricane panels for the duplex, extra lumber, lawn mower, ladders etc...are those "personal" items or items that helps maintain the property and thus not personal?

@Christopher Bowen Welcome to the single best real estate tool I have ever found.Gig Harbor may be hard to find good cap rates in but nearby places such as Tacoma offer some nice cash flowing multiplexes.

Yup, the MLS is the best tool (in my opinion) for doing a comp analysis...

And, what tools and methods should be used to do this?

One the bank did not visit the property and just used desk side appraisal tools.

By far the best REI tool on the web.I am from the Seattle area (work downtown, live in Lake Stevens) and am always looking to network.

Don't overlook the learn section on the tool bar some very good information in the archieves and the blogs are an excellent source of information.

http://www.atgf.com/tools-publications/pubs/deeds-lieu-foreclosure-advantages-disadvantages-and-draftingLand contracts or contracts for deeds are pretty well dead.