I'm looking to get my first deal underway.

Would moving be an option now that your 2flat is underway?

Little did I know that four short years later I would be a professional real estate investor with 500+ deals under my belt, 50 flipped houses, and under way on my first commercial development. 

I'm renovating an Uptown duplex right now and start another in 14 days if you want to see something under way as well., Dan is pretty much right on the money. 

I already have the title search underway, I have funds standing by to make the deposit, and I have a team ready to roll with the renovations so that valuable time is not wasted in the event that I do win.Now, as for the history; a history cannot be established unless you have a starting point.

My marketing is underway and my buyer's list is growing so that part is working. 

We have done our fair share of research and did not want to get stuck in analysis paralysis so I am glad we are under way on our first deal, but it is nerve-wracking nonetheless and I am sure we are hit some learning speed bumps.One question I am struggling with is how i should factor in holding costs (conventional loan + utilities, insurance, tax, etc.)

This then goes to the county office and the process to establish your accounts is underway.

Would the construction already have to be underway-- would the property already have to have it's parcel/strap #?....

We currently have two new constructions under way in Cape Coral with Rent to Retirement.