I'll start doing some research. 

Its my understanding through my reading/research that 35% is the typical number.

And have you researched what markets you think you want to look into? 

I'm a total newbie myself, but I've been doing an insane amount of reading and research via youtube etc. 

I have done some research, but I’ve found that many mentors and coaches are asking for significant fees, which feels like a large financial commitment, especially as a newcomer to real estate investing.

If you think doing business with us is "too good to be true", then please do additional research.

Do your research and see what fits you best - best of luck my friend 

For our second STR, we are currently researching Sherman, potentially / ideally, a less expensive duplex that we could rennovate and self manage from Dallas with workers coming to the area in mind. 

I would recommend you begin researching Chicago based meetups as there are a bunch of really good ones.

My dad and I got caught by that snag on our third flip years ago, and we definitely kicke ourselves for not doing a little extra research up front.