You should definitely be able to find decent multifamily properties for under $200k, and multifamily would be my suggestion for starting out if you can swing a larger down payment (depending on loan type, you MAY need 10% more for a multifamily vs a single family, but not always).

Are there any mentor/coach/investor types who know the Collin County, Texas area on this forum to speak with? 

Happy to discuss more if you have any questions on these types of loans!

Both of those could put an investor where you are today - unfortunately.I can tell you that I believe I've avoided these types of issues from happening on my deals because I joined coaching programs and had mentors.

I can share details of properties and if you have airdna, that something we can both look at because i dont have it (and go over what the anayics look at for certain types of propeties in this area). 

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

Anyone who had a agent referral that deals with this type of old property can get me a better quote.   

Should I offer to pay them for their consultation, or are these types of questions common as part of the PM vetting process and is a "courtesy service"?

Advertising your singular product (STR's) on multiple platforms is a lot different than trying to start out doing too many different types of businesses instead of focusing on getting good at one. 

What types of software would you recommend for flipping properties and overall project management (executing the project)?