Prices are very high here, and demand from other investors is intense; should I look elsewhere for my first deals?  

The math will always work out to pay off the highest interest rate loans first.

Anything purchased by the LLC will be cash purchases from the pooled money, at least until there is enough income to justify any borrowing in the LLC name.Very vague info, I know, but happy I found this site and I've already stayed busy giving the search a workout  :)

It seems as though the listing agents want me to schedule an appointment to look at the property before they provide any financials on the property over and above what the MLS has.I figure since the property I'm going to purchase is going to be an investment property, I would rather see if the numbers work out before I waste my time and my agent's time by looking at a property that ultimately doesn't meet my criteria.It seems as though many listing agents are reluctant to provide info to those who have not seen the property yet.  

The real fear is paying taxes...I'm trying to work out a contract for deed with them, which would somewhat lower my need for a large down payment.

These are very high maintenance, intense hands on management, that really should be done by the person that owns the property.

You really need to rethink this deal, you are pulling in family with maybe not much more money to give if needed for this deal to work out.  

Once I achieved some success, I focused on brand new houses and got permission of the owners to setup office in their vacant house and would hold open house every day and work out of the office.

I hope things work out in your favor!

Although I would probably only agree to a shorter term exclusivity contract, say 45 days, in case it doesn't work out for me.