But then again, haven't yet found an easy and quick route and I also know normal people like you and I with 15 or more active projects.

To make a strong offer, you need little to no contingencies, quick closings (typically), large EMD, POF, and an ability to create a spread for profit.

That's no guarantee that a great deal exists on the MLS in your geo *today* but you'll start to figure out pretty quick what seems oddly low priced/high priced for an area.

Fix and Flips get a lot of glam as quick way to make some money... but if you don't know how to mange the project or vet contractors or do the work yourself it can eat up all your capital quick.

However, I feel that that since we have not been pre approved for a loan, we have not started looking at open houses and we have not hired an agent, September 15th is way to quick of a rush for us to get our ducks in a row. 

To start, this began back in 2012, but took me a while to get some traction and realize real estate was the way I wanted to go.Let me provide the brief version:First property I purchased was a short sale in Clintonvil...

Took a quick drive to Meyerland - the gym I use was destroyed (24 hour fitness) but people in the area are stripping their floors out and a number I have spoken to are hurt...but still in good spirits.

And to do this, you will need to prove you can close and close quick.

Lawns can go to hell quickly, I wouldn't expect a tenant to maintain it and do a good job. 

Once you analyze enough properties, you will quickly figure out whats realistic and acceptable to you.Having said that, the calculators here on BP would be a really good place to start.