My take away is, don't be intimidated by a short sale etc.  

I walked in and said "boss give me the keys, I have this handled.

Buying in Alberta could be risky with the economy, extra due diligence would be key. 

I suspect they would want a key lock on the inside, or some positive locking feature. 

For me, the key to my success has been or is still, networking and gaining the trust of ACTIVE investors to work with, share information with.

John J.had said is also key learning and reading is great but if you're not taking action after getting some understanding then it's just a distraction that won't get you anywhere best of luck on your goals. 

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

Here is the key, CONFIDENCE!