Sellers generally recognize that some assets are likely mispriced, whether too high or too low, because the sellers knows less than local investors and are likely relying in large part on BPOs.   

My comments were not to scare you away from them or any lender in general, I just do not think websites that say they are going to provide you with the best lender for you when in theory they only have a select few options.

Start broad, learn about investing in general, mindset, and strategy, THEN dive deep into a specific niche to get steps to take action.

So in general, to outsource forces being a Landlord. 

(They claimed thousands for electrical using what appeared to be a fake electrical company, and they never had someone out to even check electrical beyond the general.) 

There is no general rule of thumb but you can expect it to be in the range you have listed above.

investors can figure on 10 to 12% return on PMLs   generally they are short term 6 months to 18 months.. in my 40 plus years at PML I find most investors started as landlords then tire of it and start to diversify.

I'm new to real estate investing in general but excited to learn about all the complexities, intricacies, and varieties. 

It could be a good choice if you prefer more personal space or want flexibility with different rental terms (like longer stays for remote workers).In general, duplexes are more limited in Austin and can appreciate well, while single-family homes give you future flexibility and a wider tenant pool.

In general though, I would think that if this is a partnership LLC you could make a capital contribution in return for equity in the LLC.