Sounds like you're off to a good start; setting a timed goal is key.

Another key item is default. 

You don't need a real estate license to be an investor.It would actually cost you money to hold a license and not actually use it.To get access to the local MLS, you have to pay money to the local Realtor board.

However, I do not believe I'll get a straight forward answer as far as the ability to do so as it is subject to board approval. 

The question I thought I would ask is:  What is an actionable step that you make everyday that you believe is imperative and key to being successful in investing? 

That's why having a "honest" property manager is key. although hard and would impossible to get 100% right unless its in house.

Some of the costs involved are licensing fees, continuing education, errors & omission insurance, general business liability insurance, increased auto insurance, realtor board membership dues, sentrilock fees, css fees, mls fees. 

I would normally never do "cash for keys", but I did in this situation. 

There isn't a short cut to a right answer, many things will work, if you do the work. find your local real estate investment group and start listening to their business models.

@Grace Keyes I'm still looking for a way to actually vote down a post...there are way too many idiots on this site...sigh.Anyway, welcome.