one thing I would like to mention though, @Stephen Craul is that if you want to get first pick on off market deals you can't be making offers with all kinds of inspection contingencies.

I use a simple, one-page contract and haven't had any issues with it so far.

I would also have conversations with other real estate investors doing commercial deals and pick their brains.

You are someone whose brain I’d like pick.

When you find a deal an investor or wholesaler will pick it up from you.

Pick a solid B-Class suburban area.

Strangely, maybe 50% of them call.Most escrow or title companies have a simple demand form you can request and fill out detailing the payoff.

in reality, an agent can take a quick look, and send you pictures, if its not already pending by then, and you can get an inspector during the DD, to give a report, but getting a licensed contractor during your DD to give you estimated repairs needed, is not a simple call just for them to go over there..

Pick a solid B-Class suburban area.

(left to right in the house, front to back in the living).My theory here is to go with a very similar looking floor (color and finish wise) for this living room, however instead of having to install unfinished wood and then pay for finishing, I would like to go with a different floor that can be a simple install and done.