That being said, it sounds like you have a pretty good reason to be motivated to get into the RE world.  

Its a regrettable mistake and sucks as a first foray into RE investing. its the mistake of a new investor who maybe was just motivated enough to ignore the red flags.

I have since narrowed my sights onto what I think will be a great start for me.I look to purchase my first buy and hold in the next month or so and am more than excited to learn all I can along the way - the fact that it can provide an enormous amount of financial security for me and my family has helped in the way of motivation.

That sort of numbers really incentives people to hold on longer than in less higher income areas.

I do have a couple of recommendations for you though; Ask the listing agent ' Is there anything aside from price that the seller would prefer to have in an offer,' such as Specific closing date, or a lease back so that they may find a replacement property, etc....I have found this to be a very effective way to extract some of the seller motivation.

Hello All.I am new to the field of Real Estate and motivated to learn about the industry.

I got a new lead (in Indianapolis) which the seller may be willing to do some sort of financing.

I feel that motivated sellers will pitch themselves by simply asking them to "explain the purpose of their call" as you mentioned. 

Landlords going through eviction may be motivated to sell.Hope this helps!

Once I find a motivated seller and I want to put in an offer, should I just print out the California state contract and write it up myself?