Many investor have this concern. As an Investor I believe there are always options available for us.
Here are some things that can be done:
One assumption, some cash (probably several thousands at least) will be needed!
Option 1

You can buy property/ies using seller financing. Such homes can be found over the internet in site like www.craigslist.com and use “owner” or “seller financing” as search term.

Option 2

Buy cheap(er) properties for cash. Some of the condos we are seeing in Phoenix and in Orlando as as low as $20K.

Option 3

Use hard money. This will probably be good as a short-term solution due to normally high interest rates.

Important: Buyer be aware! make sure you are doing the transaction safely and conducting all required due-diligence.