I've got my tool belt on and a sledge in my hand.

I've researched the property on-line and neither was listed as a prior lender.This all new to me, so any information is helpful.

I'd pay heed to Ryan's comments as personal liquidity will be the greatest tool at your disposal to take advantage of ALL financing options in the future.

This is a tool that has taken ten years or more for other cities to put into effect, and it has never failed in creating revitalization.

Put online ads on Craigslist and Backpage for the city you want to invest in.

Not to say that you couldn't find a good mentor online or over the phone, and not to say that you shouldn't accept advise from someone you don't know.

I have only read a couple books and online courses so far.

tpercival, I agree that there are some great online resources like you mentioned, however, they are only as good as the availability of information the conclusions are drawn on.For instance, comps I have gotten on properties in Texas were way out of whack.

It is only good for single family homes, but it gives you all the recent sales, including private fsbo sales, (which is an invaluable tool for me) it breaks out the comps by 1 mile radius, building and lot sq footage, and sold within 1 year.

My county does not have the info available on line.