As I understand, using this benefit would allow me to purchase a property of up to 4 units with no money down.I am wondering if anyone might have tips on good neighborhoods, local banks/title companies, RE Agents, etc.My short-term goal is to reduce costs of living by having my mortgage paid by tenants, then later using my disposable income to fund additional deals.

I'm sure you're participating in local RE Investment Clubs - ask other investors to refer you to someone they've used successfully.

Ha!  

I am a  big fan of San Diego RE investing but a bigger fan of newbies investing local. 

[Here's an idea: Why not just get your RE License?] 

Thanks for the advice re: shopping around. 

I have been using http://www.pwcgov.org/government/dept/dot/Pages/Re... as my research platform. - David

I personally started out by obtaining my RE license (required to be a Property Manager in most states) and got a job as an Assistant Property Manager.

My wife and I were the buyers in this case. We’ve placed a home under contract later to find out that it’s not a good fit for us. We made the decision to not purchase the home during our due diligence period. Our Agen...

I do not have an interest in working as a RE so I'm hoping there is another option to access properties other than what is out there to the public.