I want to have one lined up early enough in the process, but not so early that I get texts / emails every week to check out homes when I'm not ready just yet. 6) What kind of programs or options for assistance as a first time homebuyer in TX are available and should I be starting them now (well in advance of any time limit deadlines that could crop up if I wait)? 

Generally speaking your bedroom needs to have at least 70 square feet of floor space (if more than one occupant in the bedroom need a minimum 50 sq. ft. per occupant), ceiling needs to be at least 7 feet tall, can't measure less than 7 feet in any horizontal direction, needs a heat source, a light source, an emergency/rescue opening, its own door (can't access it through another bedroom), and many people will say it needs a closet (the IRC doesn't have this requirement, but many appraisers use it as a bedroom requirement).If you want to read through the code yourself, I've copied it below:IRC- SECTION R202 DEFINITIONSHABITABLE SPACE.

Fortunately, but for the "my mom" case, I have head all off.I must give them too much credit in assuming that if you have an animal, your selection will be limited, just like a smoker.

We live in an area with limited inventory right now.

@Alex Alleva - the limits on that deduction are for homeowners, not investors.

Outside the commercial core, there is a limit on the number of permits (1400) and they are all taken, with a waiting list. 

I am writing up my lease and I am wondering if anyone has experiences with setting a limit on the amount of vehicles allowed on the property.

That doesn’t mean it’s easy to start as a realtor but the market is completely healthy and the sky is the limit I know a guy who started two years ago is on pace to make over 300,000 this year so yeah the markets good but it’s still hard to become a realtor.

I am actively looking for another 10-20 unit building that is within my self imposed limit of one hour drive away.

The only thing I would watch out for are the rules and regulations imposed by the city of Seattle for rentals within the city limits.