So, one step to getting to this goal faster may well be "move".

My next step in to join a real estate club in my area for networking.

You collect some or all of the option consideration for making the connection and step out of the deal.

NAR Pres has been accused of diverting cash. I wonder how this is going to turn out: http://www.ocregister.com/articles/thomas-409565-bankruptcy-gary.html

What do I do next step by step for all of these vacant homes?

As an agent, I'd work with one of those successful wholesalers in a second; but unless the wholesaler had dozens of transactions under his belt and had proven that he could consistently perform, I wouldn't even consider working with a typical wholesaler.So, I completely understand why 99% of the agents out there probably won't even be willing to have the discussion.If you want to be a successful wholesaler long-term, you need to be able to find off-market deals.

I am just following the “what to do first at Bigger Pockets” step 3 and introducing myself.

I held one tenant and that parent responsible and NEVER had a problem in over 12 years.What happens with keeping one on the lease is that they get roommates (with my approval and lecture) and when that tenant leaves the others in there step up to lease it, so there is a flow of tenants going through.

Brian,I'm not a big buy-your-mentor person but do believe that having a step-by-step system is very helpful for keeping on track.

If I use it to put up a new apartment building, then I have all kinds of problems - oh he doesn't really have construction experience, or new construction doesn't have proven income....What if I just cash-out refi and put the money in the bank and do whatever I want with it when the bank isn't looking??