I think you need to be "immersed in it" as you get started and thats harder to do if the property is hundreds of miles away and your in a 9-5.  

I have a pretty good gameplay but I would like to hear form all of you as to what your course of action would be.Thanks,Chance 

The time between now and then will complete immersion in preparing myself educationally and getting as much cash together as possible.

I got into real estate because I knew I personally wanted to invest and I felt that immersing myself in it would help me reach my goals faster.

It'll pull up articles/blogs, podcasts (which are great to listen to) and pick up some reading material here or some used books on amazon to immerse yourself.

Here is from FL statues 475.43"All contracts, options, or other devices not based upon a substantial consideration, or that are otherwise employed to permit an unlicensed person to sell, lease, or let real estate, the beneficial title to which has not, in good faith, passed to such party for a substantial consideration, are hereby declared void and ineffective in all cases, suits, or proceedings had or taken under this chapter; however, this section shall not apply to irrevocable gifts, to unconditional contracts to purchase, or to options based upon a substantial consideration actually paid and not subject to any agreements to return or right of return reserve"I will welcome the day when all the frauds and game players are mostly out of business.

I feel like networking has been the best way of immersing myself into the culture and the community.  

Hi BPSince joining the BP community, I've been immersed in everything REI...and loving every minute!

Je peux le pratiquer avec ma femme (elle a fait French Immersion) mais nous sommes trop lazy! 

There are jurisdictions (parish to parish here) that have very different attitudes toward landlord vs tenant situations.There are reasons why LA is where it is on this list:http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/statesYour tenants are immersed in advertising (billboard, TV, radio, etc.) to  pursue legal action in the event of any accident, injury or incident and with "hungry" attorneys everywhere you turn, you will have to defend yourself sooner or later.It sounds like your father-in-law is great for the role you want him to play.