Back to your question on maximizing rent: In general, the better the neighborhood the higher possible rent.

Because of that, my whole strategy is optimized to spend as little time as possible on REI at this point (all I do is buying and oversight, trying to stay out of the day-to-day as much as possible). 

We are planning to live in one unit and rent the other half out of a duplex, then rinse and repeat this process as many times as possible over the next 5-10 years.

I don't think your first property needs to be perfect, but doing the work in advance gives you the possibility of refi (in a good rate environment) or more equity on a HELOC.

Take it easy i am still a rookie and trying to learn all things possible.

Depending on how long it takes you to save up the amount, you might want to also allow for inflation on that amount for your continued savings.[2]   Read Rich Dad poor dad.[3]   Think about getting a second job - possibly a temporary job - save a 100% of the money.Just my 2 cents.

I would recommend starting in your backyard and hone your skills if its possible, I know some markets have an extreme HCOL which may make it unfavorable in your case.

Through the LLC structure it is possible to take advantage of the existing mortgages modified first at 4,125% 22yers and 1%, yes one percent, for 40 years.

Yes, it's possible to get an FHA loan with 3.5% down in the city, but your lender is right—there are some tricky hurdles, especially for multi-units.

Probate - is good - however the more heirs the greater the possibility of a contested probate.