In this market that's hard to find cash flow, I'd offer to look into a live-in-flip to get your feet wet & a solid understanding of rehab costs. 

I find this level of underwriting lacking with many flippers as well, failing to properly consider the holding costs, insurance costs, taxes, etc.

Plus, it is a very family driven demographic which leads to tenants staying in properties longer. 

You will just likely be looking at a LOT of houses to find one that is marginal, at least for my return needs.Secondly, along these lines: in the neighborhoods I know and invest in, the demand from retail buyers is still very high, and inventory is low.  

-Build rapport by quickly finding relatable topics, such as family or sports, and conduct prior research on the investors, including their social media presence.

My concern is that all of my info is coming from the agency and I do not know how to find and evaluate properties/deals yet on my own.

Hello, I am exploring being an investor in new single-family home construction in a busy/in-demand metropolitan area.

So find one who specifically works with real estate investors and can help you maximize your taxes.

Our book is exclusively on how to safely find and fund private money loans for passive income and secured by real estate. 

Turn the place around, find a new tenant that pays market rate on time, and move on.