But you do have to go into it with both eyes wide open. 

Maybe later on down the road, the contractor you have been working with will become trustworthy in your eyes and you could then look into a partnership like you describe. 

get to walking and talking to people . the deal will come read study know your area make yourself available keep eyes open for sellers and buyers alike. remember a seller was once a buyer. i'm starting out too i'm always talking business. i just got a private lender from an agent i just met it works if you work it .  

The benefit you will gain by hiring a crew to cut the lawn, trim the shrubs is another set of eyes watching your investment to catch any other property negelect or illegal activity by your tenants.  

#1 is a close second it, I think it catches the eye more. 

@Rick Baggenstoss you named the top neighborhoods I've been eyeing these last few months--I'm glad to know I'm on the right track!  

it's based on usage anyway (but i think both water and gas are lienable in philly so keep an eye on it)

When i close my eyes and picture how I want my future to be, I can't see myself doing anything else but waking up, finding deals, making offers, flipping, fixing, holding, renting, and making money while helping others in the process. 

Will definitely keep our eyes open Callum K.

The actual bid amount price isn't listed until a couple of days before the sale so you will need to keep an eye on the lists to see what's coming up for sale.This gives you an opportunity to research a property using GIS information which tells you about the last sale, tax value, and lots of other good information.Contact your banker, insurance agent, and closing attorney to get everyone ready to anticipate you being a successful bidder on the property.Let me know if I can help!