I have done what I can in the last couple of months to be as friendly helpful and outgoing to the landlord as possible, such as to get on to his good side.Now, when he goes to sell the property, I would very much like to acquire it and have adjacent neighboring duplex rental properties.

Or maybe after a few years you decide one or two are just your "problem child" and you want to sell them to reduce your headaches by trimming the fat. 

Some properties just do not work for dogs.My local housing inspector has put in writing for me that attempting to accommodate any canine would be an unreasonable burden to the neighbors (it has an up a lot of stairs, down a long hallway dorm layout).I believe most laws talk about an unreasonable burden. 

I would suggest getting just one agent if you can in Texas and develop a relationship so they take care of you and when your ready to deal they will be too. 

Since I am moving to Albuquerque, I would like to look into that area and learn as much as I can in order to find a deal to buy.   

It can in theory yes if you don’t get the go ahead from the lender first.If you get the go ahead first and then do it post closing there shouldn’t really be an issue.

I am planning on attending any REIA or BP events I can in the coming months, so look forward to hopefully meeting some of you face to face in the near future!

Having a Realtor in the family definitely gives you a leg up.I'd recommend making a weekend sport of going to as many vacant properties as you can.  In

You can by the same house here, that you can in California, for example, for a fraction of the cost...and cash flow (with a PM and financing), at least $3 - 400/month. 

For financing, am I on the right track with who I've talked to already, or do I need be someone who throws leverage to the wind and simply keep a fat wad of cash for PP+Rehab costs in my bank account until it's time to use and simply skip financing all together?