The only reason we have requested his presence while contractor is there doing the repair purely because we are worried that the tenant might accuse the contractor damaged his stuff, etc. later.

"Simply recalling the details" included statements about having the money to purchase 2 years later and never could have had that if she had to pay off debt. 

@Rama Mulpuri Here is another consideration/opinion: east of I-35 you will have to deal sooner or later with foundation problems.

The very first property that I bought I house hacked, then rented entire house then sold 24 years later. 

If the property will be a value add and purchased with a rehab loan that will later be refinanced, or paid off via a flip, a HELOC could be a good option for you.

The buyers have reported that they are unable to obtain financing since the duplex (built in 1907) is located in an area that is zoned for single family homes (Toledo zoning was established much later).

The good thing about starting now is less competitive (as others already mentioned) and getting the experience sooner, rather than later.

For those who read this later: The posts above represent people who actually do know and understand what they write about, so this is not meant to reflect on those individuals.

Today, 7 years later,  I have 37 doors and real estate is my full time job managing those properties.I doubt anyone can tell you exactly what course you should take… but if real estate is your goal, my suggestion is to go find your local real estate investment group that probably meets once a month and start rubbing shoulders with everyone there.  

Yes I can only imagine the challenges of going back later Thanks for info jay