Before getting started, I’d recommend focusing on three key areas:Strategy Selection – Understand the different investment strategies (BRRRR, short-term rentals, etc.) and determine which aligns best with your goals.Market Research – Study the market you want to invest in, including property values, rental demand, and economic trends.Laying the Foundation – Take proactive steps now that will set you up for success later.

Every step of the process is built on the previous step. 

Quote from @TJ Dittmar: Finally taking the steps to get started real estate investing.

Going to local meetups is always the first step! 

My point is, you are on the right track with your thinking, so now to the "HOW" to actually get in, if like me, you don't have an in or connection.First step is likely to get licensed, if you aren't already there are some other ways to get in the door and be helpful but licensed means they can pay you cuts of the deal and its less upfront cost and risk to them in helping you out.  

Basically anything that I should have before the construction starts.Currently in the step of figuring out how to get home plans and how to work with architects so I have the following questions:1.

If you focus on long-term holding for five to seven years, then using the above scenario on the house you are looking at, you will make significantly more on appreciation and debt service than cash flow. 

I have gotten seller financing from this exact set of steps, which may enable you to find a seller-financed property.  

The maximum fixed-rate period seems to be seven years, and there is generally a balloon payment at 10 or 15 years.

It sounds like you have a strong foundation, and getting one-on-one guidance can definitely help you learn more in taking your next step.