Many of the investors who have YouTube channels are touting the use of Propstream and Deal Machine.

But whatever, it was a good crash course on turning an apartment (spent several weekends hauling out trash, painting, installing LVP flooring, lots of YouTube university).

Even if they play hard ball, from your numbers above, you'd make about a 30% return on the improvements- that's not bad when coupled with good cash flow. 

However, for the past few months I've been teaching myself about real estate investing by reading books, listening to audiobooks and watching YouTube videos. 

I know I'm a bit older but I saw it on YouTube.

It can only be deducted if used on the same subject property for capital improvements, which you say you don't plan. 

To start out, I would start by watching/listening to as many Bigger Pockets podcasts and Youtube videos as you can to see how you can build your buyers list.Bigger Pockets PodcastsBigger Pockets YouTube Channel

He has a YouTube channel where he goes over this method. 

I can sum up my experience by saying, you get what you put in.Coaches help you devise action plans, improve on your weaknesses and establish accountability measures.

Avoid their free YouTube videos, their offers of newsletters, special reports and especially avoid attending their free introductory meeting or workshop.Then go ahead and decide if real estate investing is something you want to pursue.A MUCH better idea than starting as a “wholesaler” is to obtain your license and become a real estate agent.Becoming and agent has the following advantages over trying to wholesale1.