I was thinking if I can talk to my neighbor about sharing the cost (I, the landlord, personally provide labor and my neighbor provide material (e.g. fence pickets)).

Kudos for taking action and adjusting course when needed!

There is an amount that you can distribute from an IRA account to purchase a personal residence.You then might be able to turn the personal residence into an investment property.Best of luck.

Whether the seller was open to a buyer commission or not, I wouldn't put an additional cost into any personal purchase.  

I am here to create a business strategy that protects personal and business investments and mitigates risk,  procure a coach or mentor, and set up tax strategies to create long-term wealth for myself and my family. 

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

And what if the one person you didn't check has a criminal background, has collections, and more?

They were a law firm who hunts class action suits to go against companies. 

Be prepared to follow up multiple times, using different forms of communication—calls, emails, and if possible, in-person visits to their office.

I personally believe that a better way to jump into mid term rentals is to take a course on buidling a property management company or cohosting business where you bring your skillset to the table without the intial investment into all the furniture and leases.