Free Evaluation etc)...

Evaluate Your Goals, Conduct Market Research, Diversify Your Investments, Financial Preparation, Network and Build Relationships, Risk Management and Seek Professional Guidance I hope it helps. 

Just finished the book how to invest in real estate: ultimate beginners guide.Also, could I ask help from you great realtors here on evaluating my first investment and do you think it would be a good first step?

At the end of two weeks, evaluate where you are at and see if you really are doing 3 hours each day.

When evaluating rental properties, aside from school districts and convenience, consider factors like neighborhood amenities (parks, restaurants, shopping), rental demand, job market trends, property condition, potential for appreciation, and rental income compared to expenses (including taxes, insurance, and maintenance).

Here are some tips to help you find and distinguish cash-flowing properties beyond the 1% rule:To evaluate a property's income potential, consider alternative metrics like the 1% rule, cap rate, cash-on-cash return, and gross rent multiplier (GRM).

This can help you determine if the terms are fair and protect your interests.While these red flags warrant caution, there's a chance the lender might be negotiating aggressively.While some private lender practices, like higher interest rates and faster closing times, are common, the extent of the changes you're experiencing warrants caution and further evaluation of your financial well-being.

Yes there is a learning curve, but if you can evaluate a STR purchase, you can build a site with Wordpress. 

From my phone conversations, his videos, and emails I feel very comfortable with David,   I also like his approach to the rehab or fix up of properties   That is, he doesn't just rip and replace , he evaluates what is good and works with it to suit the market he is working in. 

If you do want to go outside, you should put a lot of work into evaluating the area and finding local property management.