I would also like to take a moment to encourage anyone who may read this.

And thank you to this forum for the encouragement to finally take the plunge!

I would encourage everyone to question these high fees.

It’s my 40s I plan to retire by :) I always encourage active duty to start investing.

Even though it sounds like a few tough (assuming emotional) weeks of negotiations, I encourage you to stick to your investing criteria and if something during due diligence doesn't hit your marks, pass on it and start looking for the next one. 

Once you enter escrow, your bank should require an appraisal, and if not, I highly encourage you get one. 

I am currently working on direct mail and social media marketing for my wholesaling deals and would appreciate any advice, encouragement, or experience in this field.  

However If you get caught leaving prior to that 1 year you won’t be able to apply for another FHA loan for 2 years (According to my realtor).I would also encourage you to look up new MIP rules.  

At the local REALTOR association orientation, the instructor recommended and highly encouraged taking the GRI (Graduate of REALTOR Institute)  designation coursework, stating those that waited until later in their careers to do so regretted it.

My personal banker is encouraging me to take one out to use for my real estate strategy.