Networking through meetups and leveraging online communities like BiggerPockets can provide invaluable support and insights as you take your first steps.Good luck!

But after nearly three months with no full payment, I feel like I need to take action.I recently told the wife (who I know works hard to support the family):“The last thing I want to do is evict you and leave you stranded, as that will stay on your record forever.

I invest in the Kissimmee area, #1 rule of buying real estate is location. 

Additionally, the replacement property must be real estate to qualify under IRS rules.

A lot of the success stories and content we’ve seen in the past came from a very different rate environment, so I’m definitely factoring that into my approach.For now, I’m planning to focus on the Jackson County/MO area, specifically around Lee’s Summit where I have some local support from family.

The ways around that are to build a business around supporting their voucher and inspection program and spending no small amount of effort ensuring they are smoothly servicing your rentals. 

Rules to follow etc. 

be sure to stick to your 70% rule for the flip, know your numbers. run everything conservatively. overbudget for time and costs but 15-20% Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Short Answer is yes, via interest tracing rules. 

To help support that avatar, try and have on-site parking and ideally a place where a large work truck can be parked without issue (think fully decked out F-350).