It may be improbable but not impossible.

Purchasing a single note from a large bank is nearly impossible, but the smaller ones will sometimes work with investors.

Definitely more challenging and less profitable if you are not local; however, not impossible... 

So Im new here, and like everyone quickly becoming addicted to BP......curious though......I find it darn there Impossible to "keep up" with all the forum traffic, etc...just as soon as you post one reply....there are 30 more posts in various forums etc...... anyone have any strategies??

Many from states like California, where it is almost impossible to cash flow without having a LOT of cash in the property, are investing out of state.  

@Earl Jefferson It is definitely difficult...but not impossible.

Good luck, I see this as being very difficult, borderline impossible. 

It is not as impossible as some would have you believe, at least not in NE Ohio, and I assume there are many other places that it is possible as well if you learn to play the game well.Good luck in your real estate adventures. 

What happens when the auctions take place online and it's almost impossible to find out who the buyers are because they request for their info to be hidden???

I know what a short sale is and I understand that they're pretty impossible to wholesale,  which is why I asked about the deed in lieu.