The ability to do this easily and securely is also important.Finally, controlling all these two-way systems from anywhere in the world with internet access or a cell phone signal is a given, but control of all from ONE app has been the latest challenge.

I'm definitely looking into the various strategies for getting started and will absolutely seek professional help and advice on the first few deals once I get down to it.

I verbally record the addresses in my phone, have my daughter input them into excel (doesn't take long) then I use PropertyRadar (@Sean OToole's company), and look up details such as mailing address and when the house was purchased/refi'd.

My husband is a handy man he is more than willing to do as much work as he can besides things that a professional should do.

FYI -- In addition to the $495 Professional Edition that Michael mentioned, my company realdata.com offers a $159 Express Edition which is geared more toward multi-family property.

We run a professional business.  

Information is very important - asking the right questions and knowing how to respond to responses will mark you as a rank amateur or professional who knows what to do and how to get the the bottom line quickly and close a deal.

I very much welcome opportunities to network with anyone, f2f, phone, e-mails, etc.Something I thought may help me is to ask all of you - What do you wish someone had told you before you started investing?  

However, those holding a professional license should call it as it is; a "Sale Associate" or a Real Estate Licensee.

The operating company rules in connection with real estate must be satisfied so make sure to work with competent compliance professionals if you decide to pursue the use of 401k rollover funds to finance a start up.