Based out of Salt Lake City and looking to do multi-state investments in real estate by flipping or renting. 

I think what helped me was that she saw how much I was educating myself through books/podcasts/mentors, and I was able to show her my analysis on the first property we purchased and "sell" her on it.

Maybe they bring the experience and provide the funds.I don't like any of your options based on I think you are too new to investing in real estate to take on any of those.

We also love podcasts so if any specific episode of the BP shows come to mind let me know! 

I plan to be here often but have been listening to the bigger pockets podcast for the last year now, and have consistently been saving to make my first investment this year.

I’ve never done a seller-financed deal myself and have only learned about them from BP and similar podcasts.

I am currently trying to learn as much as possible by reading books and listening to podcasts.

Based on the questions you are asking I think you need to spend more time listening to podcasts like Bigger Pockets and Bigger Pockets Rookie.

You say you're based out of Vancouver yet your profile says Seattle.  

I would not eliminate OKÇ based on tornadoes, that is why you carry insurance.It will very difficult to find something in Austin that fits your budget.