Did you have any success with reaching out preauction, or was it all brick walls?

Has anyone figured out which has the higher success rate? 

The bad part is that your ability to deduct rental losses may be limited due to your successful retail business.

But without a couple folks to help evaluate a deal, it is incredibly easy to wind up with a property that doesn't break-even.We read about successes on here, but not often about the deals that DIDN'T work out. 

I know to each their own but I've always been fascinated on the insight of successful individuals when they reflect on where they came from.

I have had some success with it, but not as much as Craigslist. 

Successful agents build systems and use leverage to scale up.

Connect with people who are looking to do the same with you and also connect with people who have successfully done what you are looking to do.

I agree with what Michael is saying the 203k loan is an awesome option that I overlooked when buying my primary home (a friend of mine used it and had great success).

It's good to hear "regular" folks talk about their successes!