Hey Yianni, I would start with something either turnkey or light value-add, so you can start forming your team with less pressure and risk.

I doubt we will buy off the MLS but I am trying to find a good way to visualize MLS data so that I can plan our next purchase and get a "steal" that I will have instant equity or rehab for equity with the goal of getting a decent HELOC going.Because real estate values are so location based, it is hard for me to process the data on a spreadsheet, because I'm constantly trying to project it onto a map in mind.To know if what I'm looking at is a deal, I would like to be able to see $/sq.ft. data visualized on a map with either current listings or preferably sold properties. 

Based on what you described above, it sounds like he used all the tricks he learned presenting on behalf of Dave Lindhal, just now in his own mentorship program (I.e. sponsor deals for students, crazy acquisition fees, big pressure sales pitch all throughout, etc).

I use Beyond and am constantly tweaking prices.

I love talking about this stuff so much that my kids complain about it constantly, so I thought helping other people understand some of the general contours of the industry from a legal perspective would be a better outlet than lecturing teenagers for a fourth time about what a defeasance is!

Use an attorney for added pressure.

This approach gives them 180 days to sell, rather than to buy, which can alleviate some timing pressures.

Not true.I have section 8 rentals in bad areas and the churn is constant.  

We have been doing this constantly in Boise as we are such a high appreication market, but still more cost effective than CA.

A mid-term rental could be an great option during the 6-7 months you're away since it appeals to traveling professionals, remote workers, or individuals relocating and offers stable income without the constant turnover of short-term rentals.