Hopefully in exchange for networking and learning.Got preapproval from one lender, finished application with another.Had 2 agents set me up on automatic email alerts for plexes, foreclosures, etc.Listened to podcast 29 and others and got inspired to check out peer to peer lending.Placed CL ads for my websiteReceived a book on inspecting homes and cruised halfway through the book.Followed the local newspaper on the growth of the F/M areaSaw one duplex with Realtor, haven't put in offer...Dang... that felt good.

I talked about it in BP's podcast where I had the honor of being interviewed by BP's Best, Josh Dorkin and Brandon Turner. http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/10/31/wholesaling-podcast-mike-nelson/

California is one of the states with "exchanges" and huge numbers of illegal immigrants, etc. that will affect the market so, best to wait and see how.

It would be great if there was a Bigger Pockets Summit or conference that would give everyone a great excuse to come together and exchange ideas in person.

AND when you eventually take it out, all earnings will be treated as ordinary income, meaning you will pay MORE taxes than if you bought it outside of the IRA where you get the cash flow and receive a huge tax benefit through depreciation expense and 1031 exchange rules (upon selling).So buy that sucker with cash and then do a Cash Out Refi under the Delayed Financing Exception (Fannie Mae) if you are still eligible for such - otherwise get a portfolio loan to retrieve most of your cash back out and keep rolling on to the next property.

Find a private lender who would kick out cash in exchange for cash flow and a solid return.    

I've been reading up on RE investing over the past few weeks (beginner here) and noticed that there are references to certain financial tools (FHA loans, 1031 exchange, etc...) that are available in the US context, but not in the Canadian context.

I would consult a 1031 Exchange expert in your state.

I met him at an open house and exchanged some emails with him and he asked that I give him a call.

we oldsters call it "timeless"I am not a flipper, but I am currently shopping for replacement rentals for an exchange and one of my criteria is brick, stone, or vinyl exterior.