On my current purchase, I’m the only buyer aware of the deal so I’m not competing with 100’s of people trying to outbid each other.

It is a lot harder to compete successfully at the lower price points and survive.

@Michael Egan very and about nothing at the same time, it would be incredibly valuable if it were accurate, but if it were easily doable the big REITs and other players would be doing it or pay to make it private and just for them, so anything you could whip up in a weekend isn't going to cut it.

@Cody Maheu as Andrew mentioned, making offers with a conventional loan will make your offer more competitive when competing with other offers.

Plus as a first-time investor, I'd be competing with larger investment companies on the same street for a limited college population (they have a similar, rehabbed duplex that's listed for rent online - so 2 units).

Everything is overpriced and I can’t compete with the larger companies making all cash offers 10k over asking.

My first offer came in on day 312 at $100,000 under asking with a list of 10 contingencies that would have cost me an additional $35,000 in repairs, expenses and a no compete clause even though I own the building next door and plan to Airbnb a room out of it.

All 3 are very competent and willing to help new investors. 

Long story short, if you're consistent, competent, and committed, you WILL do well in RE.

Most deals are done sight unseen and there are few players.