Also, don't be tricked into thinking that working with the listing agent is to your full advantage. 

@Martha Daisley the trick with auctions is to research title on the property before bidding, and expect a complete rehab as you may be buying site unseen.  

IMO, not a good approach, it makes you a one trick pony as Brian G. puts it.

Another "trick" you can try is to write your leases so they provide a discount if paid before the 1st of each month. 

If an investor wants a hustler with some experience then agents working for a firm 2 to 3 years in might do the trick.

The trick to getting the best bids are to schedule the contractors back to back if at all possible so they see each other coming and going and will know there's competition for the job.

I'm trying to pick up tips and tricks.  

One trick that Brandon Turner implemented is paying them weekly, so they do their work if they want to get paid.Fourth, ask the contractor if they have the licenses and insurance to perform their tasks.Fifth, ask for references for the previous work the contractor has done.

Need help finding a duplex … tips, tricks, advice, or properties welcome!

any tips/tricks?