Buy a lot of little rental properties that throw off a couple hundred in cash-flow every month to spread my risk out, and then use the income off of those properties to leverage into more/larger properties.

That won't require any cash on your part, and is a great, risk-free way to learn the ropes.Steph

I need to make sure I have sole ownership since all $$ risk is mine.

How would this play out and how can i minimize risk to myself and the seller?

Question to Douglas: Isn't it a risk having your tenants knowing your account number?

It was a huge attempt to shift risk, in the form of ARMs and especially pay option ARMs from the lenders to the borrowers.

I always recommend to people just starting out to go out and find deals for other investors - it allows you to get the experience and learn hands on without taking all the risk.

Based on Jon's analysis: The ROI is way to low expecially when you consider your primary is at risk with an HELOC.You might consider bringing on a partner that has the cash or has a 401K.

You probably won't want to do it yourself you run the risk of getting bit by one and bats are a cesspool of infectious diseases like rabies.

Why would an agent not present your offer, risking losing their license, listings, reputation?