I have done general searches for the surrounding cities before, but I am relatively new to the area (as opposed to me having lived in the DFW area for over 2 decades and having particular areas I plan on investing in).  

Especially if you are in markets with opposing high seasons, although finding a winter-peak market is tough in the lower 48 without spending big bucks. 

Mortgage as opposed to Deed of Trust.

First thing that came to mind is: given portion of lot is owned by "community" if HOA decides to move forward with $6k charge shouldn't that be dispersed across the community as opposed to just me?

Is there an advantage to maxing out the refi and pulling as opposed to leaving the equity in and tapping it over and over? 

It only matters as step 2, AFTER you already determined that it was a capital gains deal, as opposed to ordinary business profit.Step 1: Business or capital investment? 

I would screen her first so you know who will be living there but assuming she's ok, would just add her as an occupant as opposed to a responsible party to the lease.

Taking time to write out a plan, instead of being handed one; self discipline as opposed to having a set of tasks done before my next check in with the "teacher." are probably equally effective if you take two people with the same level of motivation each prepared to invest the same dollar resources in their venture. 

I did not want to risk losing the deal so I bought it at the asking price, as opposed to negotiating down.

. - I realize that contest window was long closed, but I acquired this duplex last week and was shocked to find these rates during closing as opposed to listing which did not show that.