Meet with them to see who they are currently using (if any) and how you stack up against them.Is it you are cheaper, better systems, special programs to constantly tweak to get the owner extra dollars (return).

If you want to create a permanent job for yourself, you can’t retire early – and if you want to retire early, you can’t create a permanent job for yourself.When I consider the purpose of rental properties in my life (to create streams of passive income that don't require my ongoing involvement) the answer is obvious.

I don't mean to cast all agents in a negative light (because that would be a gross misconception) - but I bring this up because I've worked with a few who have had a tendency to sugarcoat the facts, distract from the real areas of concern, and are constantly pushing me into a buying now decision (rather than being patient and looking for the right deal).

Just thinking out loud here, and because I have a similar situation I am working with now...To get the sellers attention, and due to their age, I would negotiate less down payment, in exchange for a prepayment penalty (only if legal in your state, and so they know you wont buy, fix and flip in a year) which gives them the income stream they still have, and the tax-deferred benefits for 2-3 years.

I'm still constantly learning myself, but would be happy to help any way I can.Cheers.

Fast forward to 2013, I am looking to execute a better plan which includes creating multiple streams of income by investing in multi-family properties that require rehabbing.

I bought in Portland, Oregon and turn people away on regular basis due to the fact that there are a constant influx of relocations, vacationers, and short term stays for employers in the area.

Even if it is covered up, it gets damaged with contractors working on it constantly.

I'm constantly creating, reviewing and updating complicated spreadsheets and databases.

Or better yet, selling them with owner financing and collecting a steady stream of passive income without having to worry about taxes, maintenance, etc?