Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing Check out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/ If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing Check out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/ If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

There is a good supply of both town homes and condos, so look around and be selective. 

The best protection is to select notes with equity in the collateral which exceeds the value of your note plus senior liens (the first mortgage in the case of a 2nd) by some margin (which you define). 

@Jay HinrichsWhat you just posted is your opinion and no one else, and I understand you like a blast everyone if they don't agree with you, and one day you might have good bank contacts like I do, and you are right johnny on the spot cannot just call up a major bank and buy a note.

Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing Check out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/ If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

Define these things so your agent can work with you to select potential purchases.

Build a box, use standard sizes, usually cost less to build a two story vs. ranch.If you don't already have a plan selected, work with your architect/draftsman on value engineering. 

And I've also called my agent up to go look at 1 property after work in the dark and written a contract on the spot. 

In order to tag just start typing their name after @ and their name should pop up to be selected at the bottom of the text box.