I personally wouldn't want to do that with the back yard though considering dogs, kids, etc.

Sometimes you'll end up getting a bird-dog fee from another wholesaler for a deal you can't get under contract.

I large dog on the inside might deter them enough from breaking in.

For big dogs like @Mike Sumsky and @Bob Malecki the returns probably aren't even worth it.

I looked at the condition of the sidewalks and street asphalt, checked out how many people were walking their dogs or generally around after work and on weekends. 

Difference is that was your own home and your own dogs.

Some ideas below.Private lenders - friends and familyPartnerswholesale the dealBird dog the dealhard money lenderssome combination of the above

I accept dogs.

However - I have 2 condo units in a building which I discovered while riding my bicycle around with the dog.  

Referrals are my best source of deals -( Realtors, Wholesalers and bird dogs) Once you have a legitimate cash investor behind you brand the heck out of yourself as a cash real estate buyer so others are bringing deals to you.