I’d like to start with buying/managing our own residence and branch out investing in others from there but my fear is that we’ll be tying up all of our capital and won’t be able to start investing in other properties for a while.

The fear of regret is the fire that keeps me going when it seems like the goal is too far away.

That's how we started on the rental home path 4 years ago, after years of desire and fear.

Have no fear. 

Read my paper.Also read this post I added to this thread:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/61/topics/619...I have never said I'm just the manager, I'm always the owner, the guy who gets stuff done and its me who fixes stuff, takes your rent, nags you when your rent is late.   

(a) A tenant to a residential lease may terminate a lease agreement in the manner provided in this section without penalty or liability, if the tenant or another authorized occupant fears imminent violence after being subjected to:(1) domestic abuse, as that term is defined under section 518B.01, subdivision 2;(2) criminal sexual conduct under sections 609.342 to 609.3451; or(3) stalking, as that term is defined under section 609.749, subdivision 1.

When you start including incentives, I fear some lesser GC's would use this as an opportunity to gain a little more cash and your finished product would suffer as a result.

He also told me never to have too much money in the bank for fear of getting sued and them taking your capital.

They can choose to hang up or to talk with you.Don't let fear stop you.

I have no fear in investing without seeing said property or area as long as you do all your homework.