She said she has alerts set up on mls and gets emailed the minute a new listing pops up that matches her criteria.This seems so obvious to me so why is everyone stressing building a buyers list?

@Harpreet Singh,  Using the appraisal done during purchase which matches with zillow's zestimate.

After meeting 2015/2016 Roth IRA contributions, hopefully I'll be able to save up enough for a low down payment (have a family member willing to help out by matching) property in a year to a year and a half, so I'd like to study up during the time as much as I can (currently on third book -written by Frank Gallinelli regarding cash flow)On the other hand, I've been in a dead-end product manager position so am looking to switch careers, preferably one that combines real estate and finance. 

If you a realtor who you think would be a good match, please send me a recommendation. 

For example...some people love section 8 housing...others hate it...you'll need to learn both sides and figure out if it's a match for your personality. 

Early on the first day of a listing you can get the remarks and photo's to see if it matches your target. 

I would suggest1. creating a plan on what you are looking for, what returns you need and the level of risk you are comfortable with. 2. find a market you are comfortable with that matches up with your plans. 3. finding a provider that you trust. with good PM. 4. then finding the properties is the easy part:) good luck!

VRBO uses conversion rates in their algorithms to determine "best match." 

At times they are up against the clock to match a deal to a buyers criteria and go to closing.

My experience matches @Stuart in terms of type/quality of notes I have purchased.