I have only 3 doors that I manage so not a big time player so wanted to start with some cheaper software and I heard on the podcasts that RentRedi was included in my pro membership so I signed up.  

Still need architect and project would cost more or less same.

It would cost me only $2300 per month which includes rent utilities furnishing and property management. she showed me one example only of a customer who profited greatly.

A bonus is if that company also manages and will stand behind that property after the sale to an investor like you.if you have the time, desire, risk tolerance, and knowledge, you can absolutely find and or create deals on your own.  

You would have to self-manage though, as paying a property manager will eat up most of your profits.

As for the rest of it, you can find a lot of useful tips on past forum posts along with podcasts and youtube material on the topic (BP and other RE sources).We've self managed STRs for a few years.

You don't have anything to take I assume since you don't have anything to put into the project.

Once we identify a location that meets our criteria, we network with builders, property managers, lenders, insurance companies, CPA's, attorney's, etc. that service that area to have the entire team already established you need to be a successful investor regardless of your physical location or experience level.

The clients we work with who have found success letting us help them find highest and best use of properties, then we manage them for a year, and then pull out 60-70% of their money, and do it again - rather than waiting several years for a home run hit. 

What worked for me was focusing on building strategic relationships with top tier people (quality partners) who could complement what I brought to the table—sales, management, and execution.When you are approaching sellers for creative financing, leading with a clear value proposition (and CONFIDENTLY) is key.