Wholesaling teaches you an extremely valuable skill in RE: How to find off-market deals.

I would try to tie those experiences and skill sets to your REI path.  

As for repairs on the purchase of a home prior to auction there are some professionals utilized by the professionals for costs to repair the home in best and worst case scenarios.

Poor communicators, poor housekeeping skills, prescription med abuse, big dogs that they couldn't properly care for, damaging, etc.

I’m drawn to the endless opportunities the Texas market offers and am committed to building my knowledge and skills to make smart, strategic investments.Right now, I’m focused on understanding the basics—everything from evaluating properties and navigating financing to learning about the unique aspects of the Texas real estate market.

They can sharpen skills you already have, or expose you to things you've never even thought of.

Best neighborhood and best assets are subjective and largely based on the individuals capabilities (balance sheet, skill set, time etc.)

I recommend you figure out what you want to do, then actually do it to see if you enjoy it, have some skills, etc.

There are several hurdles during the process:Find the deal - Unless you are marketing or plugged into a community where there are opportunities, it isn't always easy to find the right dealsEvaluate the deal - Without professional guidance and research tools, it is difficult for a newbie investor to evaluate and ARV/FMV or create an adequate rehab budgetSecondary exit strategies - If things don't go as planned are their other opportunities to exit profitably.

This is where keeping a cool head and using good negotiation skills will likely yield the best outcome.Good luck.