I both personally invest in real estate and help others gets started/expand their portfolios in various Midwest/midsouth markets.What I do with my kids: My wife and I have 2 of our rentals that are on the same street, with a home in between them.

Regardless of what you do to the important stuff on a home the avg consumer still wants to see granite countertops lol Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

And a couple houses from random lines of credit from banks.

The current property is propane-only, and while natural gas is available, the cost to bring the line is around $40K–$50K.

I've heard stories about how much of a hassle it can be getting different permits and dealing with zoning laws depending on the area you're in.

Their answers are always along the lines of "no money down" or "you can use it basically an unlimited amount of times".

Other times my clients and I discuss a lower fee based on my involvement. 

.: I am new to this and trying to gather as much  information as possible.We are mid fifties, living in a tourist area on the coast of GA.

Decent school district in Carlynton.Wilkinsburg: Depends on section.

Be sure to explore all around the forums as well as many of the FREE tools that Bigger Pockets provides.I am on the lending side of things and am always happy to hop on a call to discuss loan options that are out there, even if not offered by my resources.