There are so many investors, lenders, agents and other professionals you can meet here that will help you get one step closer to your goal.

In CA it's closer but more capital intensive.

I don't think it is any risk of collapsing.The driveway is about 80 ft long (garage is at back of property and driveway runs down side of house) and is one of those with grass down the middle with slabs either side. 

Depending on where you are in Durham you need to priced properly-- probably closer to $1400-$1500 to move.

If it was still my primary I'd be closer to 1% range. 

My strategy is buy and hold so would be looking for a cash flowing rental and your post definitely sparked my interest in looking closer at the Reading market since I'm only 45 minutes away.

If they want to sell now or in six months, you need to know before giving them an offer so you don't lose leverage by giving them an offer now instead of closer to when they are ready to finalize.Since you are already going to the property, take good pictures and make sure you capture the electrical panel, HVAC labels, and plumbing material.

I would suggest starting lower for "early birds" and as you get closer to completion raise the rents to market value.

Round Rock/Austin- lot of competition, plus your land is going to be higher.Temple/Waco/Killeen- less competition.Next look at the map and the competition closer. 

My lease agreements include how often grass needs cut, tenants paying for their own lightbulbs.