We would want to use it for personal use probably one per year. 

Any recommendations on Houston REI groups that meet in person or virtually?

The flippers we personally work with in California have not run into this issue (as far as I'm aware).

For funding, explore options like FHA loans, personal savings, or creative financing, and focus on New Jersey markets that align with your goals, such as Newark for rentals or commuter towns for house hacking.

I personally do three types of lease options.

Figure out which best fits you and your personality and take it from there.  

@Antoine Black  In general, yes, it goes off your personal credit. 

Any insights or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!

A contract is only as good as the person enforcing it.

There are any number of Real Estate schools available to you, so choose the one that compliments your learning style, whether that be online or in person or a hybrid.