I guess I could look at it as this would be a good opportunity to test my chops at something more challenging than a single family rental with minimal risk.

It seemed each one had to justify their pay check or something. 

I'm just trying to have some things in my head for when we do meet.

On the flip side, is that something you want to take on?

However, its something you are REQUIRED to take by the IRS.

It's free to create an accountAttom Property Data is something my old office used and paid for and was pretty great resource for foreclosures and lispendences.Usually county courthouses will display property data on their websites or you can see it posted there in person ( Free)Property Shark is paid but pretty useful up here in NYC as well.Free is always nice and as someone who's been privileged enough to used the paid services I would add that if you can afford it, pay for a service for a month or so.

There will never be a "perfect deal" in my mind, but something that works best for them at that time, and something they have the upmost confidence in is ideal. 

Something to consider is that if you can't afford the SFH you might be better off buying a townhouse or condo rather than waiting until you can afford the SFH.

Pile as much money into index ETFs and savings as possible right now so you have money working for you in something that has little barrier to entry.

My eyes are always open for multi family opportunities or single family homes in good areas if anyone ever comes across something!