We've always had difficulties with furnished rentals and LTR tenants. 

How easy / difficult is it to assemble a team? 

-Name-Phone #-Email-Contacted (by phone/email/ unable to reach)-Investing Type-Investing Area-Financing-Property Preference (Beds/Bath/ Price Range)-Difficulty Level (Gut Jobs, Carpet/Paint,etc)-Preferred Notification Method (phone call/email/text)-NotesOf course everyone is going to have different templates, and it's best to find or create a template that works best for you.I hope that helps, and best of luck!

And if so, was how was the process (i.e. length of time to complete deal, obstacles in process, difficulty in setting a price or getting a reduction, etc.)?

I have had turnover after a little over a year with a tenant, followed by difficulty getting it rented out the second time. 

Is anyone else experiencing the difficulty I am?  

Its hard to turn a property thats located in that part of lakewood into a "gem," like you say however it doesnt mean you cant make any money it just will be difficult.

Those who are experiencing some difficulty that makes them willing to exchange more money for the convenience of a quick sale.

But I admit there are better deals to be found in other places so depending on what level of difficulty I encounter identifying a deal that meets my criteria I may shift focus to markets in New Mexico or Houston (I have family in both these areas). 

i come from the old school where equity was king and now am having some difficulty borrowing on an investment single family home with fifty percent down because of our debt to income ratio...i always worked to avoid paying taxes...