I am also wondering what to show for CAPEX schedule, if it should be anticipated expenses in future or just show the past expenses, or should it just allocate $ for each month. 

If I were in your position, I would buy a duplex that has potential for value add, fix it up, live in one unit and rent out the other unit as a medium term rental or long term rental.

Gifting equity in a house may be more trouble than it is worth if you are not near the life-time exclusion1) Potentially having to get the property appraised everytime an equity is gifted2) Having a title company update the title every time3) Exemption of the gift tax return is normally for cash gifts below the annual gift tax exclusion, you may still need to file if you gift non-cash4) If there is partial ownership over several years, having to properly pro-rate certain items such as real estate taxes, mortgage interest and rental income if the property is a rentalBest of luck 

Do you guys have any advice on how can I get started in my real estate journey as an agent and potentially an investor??

I believe that the extra burden from tariffs will probably dampen the positive effects of lower corporate taxes as a shot term trend, potentially leading to slower project initiations.

I think a lot of folks are sitting on or building up cash reserves as rates have squeezed a lot of the potential cash flow opportunities of years past. 

I don't know, it sounds kind of weird but my friend is kind of freaking out about potential liability since the lien was literally placed on the house essentially hours before closing.This is being made all too complicated.  

Going to a lender saying "I need $150k for rehab" will only lead to potential scam artist lenders.

A professional home inspection can help you avoid costly surprises by uncovering potential issues before you buy, renovate, or rent out a property.Key Areas an Inspection Should Cover:✅ Roof – The home's first line of defense.

I would love to Dm you and get your number down send some deals in Chicago your way in here near future