Third, some are partnering with other investors who bring capital.The least effective method is cold-calling lenders or treating money like a commodity.

Also, the BRRRR method is still alive and just reusing the same capital while the snowball grows has been pretty effective thus far. 

This has helped accelerate numerous investors.

It’s the BRRRR method.

I am so interested in hearing about the experiences of other investors, so I can learn other methods, hear other challenges, avoid the pitfalls, and most of all listen to other success stories.

A method of decision making has to be established.

If (while running numbers) I find the Brrrr method will be successful- we'd likely go that route. 

Prospective PM's need to be pro-active in this department, by providing written details of key processes, including best communications methods and expected response times, rental prep, marketing, tenant screening, rental agreement and any "house rules" terms, late fee charges including who gets what part of it, late fee process including notices, timeline of actions, actual eviction process and cost range, move in / move out procedures and documentation, service call handling and process re cost limits or authorizations, definition of "emergency" and handling process, method and time frame for transfer of net rental to client account after receipt, and an overview and explanation of the standard monthly reports, and what other documents, if any are included with them.

Additionally, what methods have you found effective for identifying trends and collecting reliable demand data — whether through surveys, market observation, or direct customer feedback?

The Brrrr method is looking like a strong strategy for me and am considering using Hard Money lending as a good way to get started.