There's a sample probate letter in the Biggerpockets education file.Go to Tools then FilePlace and choose Letters.

I like the idea of getting homes paid off, enjoying the benefits during retirement and then passing them along to my kids when I’m dead and gone or using it to fund their education, help them purchase their first home, etc.... not totally agains it though.

Talk with a financial advisor and one that charges a fee, not one that will try to sell you something.  

Hi Ben,The first thing you need to do is educate yourself and take your time.

Then educate yourself and run numbers on lots of different types of investments.

@Marty SummersYou might want to talk with your tax advisor about the possibility of utilizing substantially equal periodic payments when you retire early.

A good chunk of my CORE portfolio is invested using the asset allocation strategy (different types of index funds) managed by a robo advisor.

Even though I haven't purchased my first property yet (waiting for June when my downpayment money matures in a CD) I have a schedule of research and regularly meet with other investors and keep track of my educational process.  

@Tarik Smith It's best to start with your education.

Can pros educate me on what I am missing?