It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best

To maintain your standard of living, you need an income that outpaces inflation because each trip to the store costs you more for the same basket of goods.

Unfortunately, this trip is only to Houston and Dallas but future trips will include San Antonio.  

Trying to find an expert to guide me if there is a way around it.

You need landlord references to confirm he takes care of his rentals, doesn't violate the lease, pays rent on time, etc.I recommend you read this guide, set some standards, and stick to them: https://www.biggerpockets.com/...

This Friday my wife and I are going to be taking a trip to look at a property that consists of approximately one acre of land located in Maine.

People from different areas of expertise to help guide you and give you their individual insight. 

She is an invaluable plethora of knowledge.If you do find a great landlord-tenant attorney willing to guide landlords, please share the contact info.

Even 'builder templates' or stock plans will require their own trip through the City for permitting.

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best