So with a high profit bargain, but no budget or plan to instruct us, we managed to spend a tremendous amount of capital and watch our money disappear before our eyes. 

The phrase "just get out there" insinuates that we need to, literally, get "out" there as if you could go into the housing market.What is really meant by this phrase is to "watch" the market.

What you want to see is strip mall construction, not vacancy signs.Locally, I've seen good and viable businesses close due to lease increases - - and then only watch for two years as the space went vacant. 

(watch out for the JUNK FEES that most of them stick in there)A lawyer - he'll be glad to ask you for a retainer - or charge you a fee for a using a boiler plate conventional contract that has way too much stuff in it to be useful for your purpose as an investor.

I watched about 10 videos, spoke to an investor that came to look at my primary home last week, and emailed @Brandon Turner, who I watched to webinars of and who sent me videos on the subject.1 of the resources I used was zillow, but it can not be the only resource.  

I live in Charlotte NC and as soon as i sell some commercial land here and my rental properties i'm retiring to Bend---but oh my ill need a place to stay for Jan-Feb maybe even Marchevery year.I used to live in LA way back in the 80s so i remember Calif insanity prices.Can you share your thoughts on what Central to Northern Ca city that is remotely affordable and safe for an old lady to ride her bike a few miles dailythat has 50 F and above for JFM?

Watch Out for Tax Reform!

One this that has helped me is focus on lead generation. get on YouTube and watch as many as you can on that.  

I watched countless webinars/podcast on bigger pockets and I understand the concept.

This will be my first big investment and I am extremely nervous about buying it and watching it fall apart and fall into a money pit any suggestions on what to look for out and inside of the duplex?