I would also network with real estate agents in the markets that you want to buy.

.* If you have to double close, you'll be "acting" like an actual buyer, meaning you'll likely need proof of funds and a way to show credibility in the eyes of the selling agent, bank, etc.* You will have to get a purchase price (PP) low enough to leave room for an end-buyer to purchase from you.If wholesaling short sales is a business model you seriously want to explore, I would suggest reading a lot more about short sales here on BP to understand the nuances/restrictions that banks typically put in place.

Our agent helped us find this.

Are you a real estate agent?

But you need to make sure you and your agent are confident you're not overpaying.Now, all that being said, I also think it would be a great idea to do some value add projects to the properties (Personal residence and rental property) and do cash-out-refinances on the buildings when rates become more favorable and you're up and running with the rental.

A)The owner is a real estate agent, and has been for over a decade.

I think we'll have to rely on an agent there, so worth really developing that relationship there. 

Regardless of where you look, make sure your agent knows and operates STR's, and ideally your lender as well.

If you are making an offer below asking price, are you contacting the seller or sellers agent directly to negotiate or is your real estate agent doing that for you? 

Here are some of my thoughts as a real estate agent and an investor myself.- Search Bigger Pockets for investor friendly brokerages in your area, interview them, and join a team which will mentor/coach you on being a great salesperson and being a RE investor.- Put most of your effort towards becoming an incredible real estate agent, detach yourself from the monetary outcome, focus on providing value and an amazing professional service, and build an unwavering commitment to these things for the next 18-24 months.- Focus on learning over results, adding value over being the best, and actively revisting your overal goal, from there you will be setup to have an incredible real estate journey and life.I haven't mentioned anything around real estate investing because if you are committed to doing this investing for a long time, then working on your mindset, working on being a helpful and value add agent, and these fundamental things WILL help you become a successful investor.