As I understand (by reading articles online), Texas has strict laws in place that are not investor friendly around these.

I would prefer not to do that if possible, because I don't want to expose myself during this brief vulnerable period without protection, but I also don't want to break any laws or LLC shields if this process is not handled correctly.What are your thoughts?

I will always have a max number plus 500 .. many times everyone is backing into basically the same number and u can win the property by just spending a few hundred more. your not going to turn the deal down over a few hundred right.if its on line auction winning the bid just means your now in contract to buy.. and its a normal escrow after that.you will never work with the bank you work with the auction company.

Are there any online maps of neighborhoods tagged with these unofficial ratings?  

Be sure to have agents send you off-market investment property opportunities as well, you can find some real diamonds in the rough leveraging agents who run across deals before they come online. 

Like with the insurance I was hoping there would be an accurate online resource for comps without having to ask someone else for the info.

You will have to pay cash for all expenses at the time of closing, so it shows up on line 120you cannot use borrowed money for this as they will source the fundsfind a lender who knows how to do this BEFORE YOU PURCHASE.

I'm currently taking an online course to get my license in Virginia.

I check for permits online for every property I appraise.

I’ve gained a lot of knowledge online about wholesaling, but majority of the people mention to check with your lawyer about legal and illegal processes of wholesaling in your state, but don’t really tell you or give examples of what to ask.Any experienced people have questions that I should for sure be asking?