I would like to buy the property from the owner but don't want to offer a bad deal and in the process anger/offend the landlord.

I am also in the process of getting my real estate licence.

Since I'm brand new to this, I will need a lot of hand holding as I sort through this process and I'm sure I might seem a little "flaky" as I figure things out, particularly in deciding what is the right deal and how the numbers work.

Currently, I'm in the process to close on my very first deal sometime next week and I am stoked but I don't want to stop there or be comfortable.I've thought of a strategy and I'd really appreciate the community's feedback.

It's a process......If you actually have a "good deal" and numbers make sense most investors will find you if your marketing correctly.

Than I would buy a house where ever you plan on going to college and rent out rooms while you live in it.

I'm still in the process of checking with other banks. 

Account Closed,Lenders typically start their own "wheels" in motion after the third missed payment, but it can still take a while before they get to the point of beginning the process of foreclosure.That said, Brian called it: offer him what he owes  - you decide if you want to give him any more than that as an incentive to cooperate.

It took me about a month to get through the process.

I think all you need is a title company to close your transactions - no don't need an account at this time - most title companies have lawyers to close your transactions -You should make sure that you buy real estate at a giant discount - Understand the management process - learn how to be a good landlord - a tenant is a customer - the tenant is the person who will pay for your mortgage - treat them well.Find discounted real estate from landlords who find themselves in rent court -Start to deal directly with owners - I don't think you should depend on agents selling retail properties - you need to go under-ground for great deals -Tax salesPublic AuctionsRun print ads and radio commercialsInternet - 5 weeks ago I created an internet site - I have received over 200 leads - have 70 offers out there and 15 ratified contracts - learn those systems and you will do well.Expired listings - go knock on some of those doors - an expired listing is  FAILURE of property to sell - I am sure the sellers are not happy - go find them and solve their problems.Direct mail to commercial properties owners - commercial buildings can be  great profit center - when you advertise for real estate - signs - internet or mailings always advertise - WANTED REAL ESTATE - houses - commercial and non-conforming properties - all cash -as is - no commission.