@Jason Hirko I love your method! 

I think I will try that method out.

Cost effective methods for reaching leads in those states

I'm a father of 3 and a self employed financial advisor for 8+ years.  

Yes @James Beam it is hard to find 2%-1% in the local north central areas of Kentucky, but there are other methods to look at.  

Again Sub TOO BAD BAD for seller if the seller cares at all about their credit and or  any equity they may have if they did a wrap.I know its popular on this site to promulgate this method of buying problem is too many financial sociopaths or wanna bee investors to down right crooks for a seller to take this RISK which you are now learning first hand

Denis Couture Have you considered employing a strategy, of locating properties owned by Motivated Sellers willing to consider Seller Financing?

So on the SS# thing, every time I've had someone say "I'm in the country lawfully, and my employment is above board and not under the table, but I do not have a SS# because of X," it (so far) has turned out they were not in the country lawfully and/or their income source was some unverifiable under the table thing that we cannot use for mortgage purposes. 

All they want is 2-3 months of housing, because they plan on moving again when they find employment.

It sounds like you've been steadily building a strong financial foundation and real estate will be your best method of maximizing returns.