Oh and I am new and I am not going to prove first I can execute...Just an idea, or put your focus on getting the cash and save yourself a lot of headaches:)Whatever ever you decide I hope it works!

I have been an avid listener of the BP podcast for quite some time now and I'm excited to be part of the online community!

I started looking at investing in real estate as I saved some cash for the last few years.

I plan to keep working to save 20% of down payment to buy an other home rent it, with that cash flow do it over and over again.

I wish I knew about this site when I first started out in real estate, It would of saved my self countless headaches and a lot of money haha.  

We also have an insurance provider here at MAREI that is the preferred provider for National REIA - RealProtect - and I have had people get quotes from them that saved them a ton over local agents.  

If you don't have a RE agent, I would either google for the top realtors in your realtors and start calling them.And/or search for realtors on BP to help you.When I need a quick search online, i use findcompsnow and realquest express 

However the online deal went sour because seller wanted 35 days close with $300 flat fee penalty and $100 per day for any day over 35 and I could not get a conventional mortgage with no plumbing from my current lender and rehab loan would take 60 or so days to close.

We are planning on 'saving him' for when we might identify another porperty at say an auction where we need funds ASAP and can then refinance to pay it off.The other restrictions that I have found from the big national guys is that  they dont like to lend under 50K, require 30-40% or more down, dont like building pre 1950s or so, and dont like houses that have been converted to multifamily - they in essnece want a property that is easy to sell if they have to foreclose since that one property is their only recourse.Hope that helps a little. 

What to Look for in a Real Estate AgentWhen buying a home, you want a real estate agent who… Takes the time to understand your needs and goals, so you have a true partner in your home buying journey.Explains everything clearly and answers your questions, so you’re never in the dark.Has expertise and a track record of success in the local market.Knows how to find great properties in your price range.Will alert you to new listings, quickly, so you get the jump on those opportunities.Will advise you on the best price to offer for the home you want.Will prepare and present the offer, and skillfully negotiate such things as price, conditions, closing dates, etc. so you get the best deal.Will save you potentially thousands of dollars by ensuring you don’t overpay for the property you want.Will recommend reputable home inspectors, movers and other professionals you may need.Not every real estate agent offers all of these services.