I can speak very intelligently about what transitional areas in my own market would make great investments....however I would not be able to point to something from an outsider to make them understand my market.

Speaking of which, anyone having any luck using Zillow's pre-forclosure stats?

You can definitely achieve your goal if you set your mind to it.Here's a great quote from Napoleon Hill's Think and Grow Rich that speaks to your situation."

I won't speak for all Jefferson County investors, but most have no interest in investing in E-Town.  

I was wondering what the best strategy is to take when speaking with a mortgage lender?

Speaking of inflation, everybody is afraid of it but when it comes to inflation, I think it would help a lot of people.  

I have yet to even speak to these people.

But from what I've researched, and from other investors on here speak of its a pretty good market to be in.

I can't speak much to her experience level, but I did find out later that she was actually a minor celebrity in the area and was featured on a national reality TV show (not one related to real estate, and I don't want to give away too many details).Also if it matters, I found out during the closing process (which took another 2+ months) that the people who ended up buying the house were investors.  

The area is more C+, bjut I'd never recommend buying a property with tenants in place unless there is (a) a strong and documented record of timely rental payment; (b) you have the opportunity to speak to the tenant about the condition of their unit and the property in general prior to the purchase; (c) you run a thorough background screening on the tenant to make sure they will pass your standards for a resident.Agents often seek to sell properties when they should strive to build relationships by offering good investments.