We would like to learn about how we should have went about it so that we can purchase more properties, minimize mistakes, and reduce our reliance on corporate life.

As I tell a lot of my investor clients I work with, with any real estate that you buy, you want to hold for the rest of your life!

If you are willing to do some work, you can force appreciation, capture some equity, which boosts rent-to-value.In terms of areas to avoid, I would stay away from the East side, particularly anything along Post road between Pendleton Pike and I-74. 

To get started, continue learning through podcasts like the BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast and books like "The Book on Rental Property Investing" and "Set for Life."

They have to take it out within 10 years, add it to their regular income, and pay taxes at the highest bracket in their life.

However, I think some upcoming life changes may be the right opportunity for me to dip my toes in the water in real estate investing.I live in Pflugerville, TX (25 minutes from downtown Austin) and will soon be moving to Portland, OR, for my dream job.

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

I think demand will continue to grow as the area settles into its next life as more of a year round destination.  

But I strongly urge anyone to always get Aldermanic support before proceeding because it makes life--and the entire project / process--a whole lot easier. :)IN SUM: Based on what you've shared, it sounds like you won't need to rezone if you just want to build a duplex.

Another idea that we have been exploring is using the cash value of whole life insurance funds for emergencies.