Permitted or not, you want 100% assurance the property is within building code standards for the year it was built, and for any upgrades/ changes - the years those upgrades were made; ie GFICs in wet areas currently, but not required in original construction back in 1950 when they didn't exist.sorry for not replying earlier, I'm rarely on this platformbest of luck on the project

I am considering the pros/cons of doing this without a property manager or real estate agent. 

That's a steal, if you were going through me we'd be at 75-100k for this huge project.

If anyone needs a GC once the designs are done I can build/renovate the project.

Since you haven't started the project yet, use this time to network with lenders to see who offers the best terms....seasoning, rate, leverage and pre-payment penalty terms. 

Consider managing remotely you'll have to be willing to travel 3 hours when needed or find a way to handle it virtually.

I feel that MLS is not accurate because not all property managers put them in. 

Your focus on the Dallas market and Fix and Flip projects sounds solid, especially with the DIY approach and having an interior designer on your team. 

Then you will be stuck with a potential rehab project.

Are there property managers who specialize in managing housing for section 8 tenants?