There’s so so much to learn about real estate investing and what works specifically for you.

Depending how much you earn you can step up those savings by getting a side-hustle in any part of real estate....working for a top Real Estate office on weeknights and weekends, working for an RE Investor, working for a General Contractor and learning a few skills, etc.

Roll out the red carpet.I don't know how it works up in Canada (although I'm fascinated to learn), but if you're not using a well-connected broker, then I would skip the skip tracing.

I'm a software developer and very good with a spreadsheet and all, but I'm wondering if I could secure an experienced lender who not only can lend, but also provide advice on a deal like this from having financed similar situations before.Pointers to financial calculators for such an endevour and hotel/motel renovation-style lenders & contacts appreciated.Thanks,Matthew

and the low purchase prices often mask major deferred maintenance that can be a surprise - the midwest housing stock is much older than CA, AZ, NV, etc.i'd encourage you to save up for a house hack locally and then house hack while you continue to learn and savegood luck

I learned about finding a deal which should have positive cash flow but it seems increasingly impossible in today's market, especially in Austin TX area.

Keep learning and growing...

As two veterans just starting out in real estate rental investing, our goal is to share our unique perspective and the key lessons we're learning along the way. 

Many HOA foreclosure buyers have learned this lesson.  

Learning to manage tenants, property managers, and projects is a whole other set of skills.