There are definitely some builder grade crap brands out there, so stay away from those. 

Read books on investing in real estate, listen to the podcasts, attend webinars and stay active on the forums while connecting with other investors in your area and pick a niche.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Read books on investing in real estate, listen to the podcasts, attend webinars and stay active on the forums while connecting with other investors in your area and pick a niche.

Read books on investing in real estate, listen to the podcasts, attend webinars and stay active on the forums while connecting with other investors in your area and pick a niche.

I was planning to stay for a while, but it looks like I will probably be leaving in less than a year. 

It can be if you don't assume that there's anything wrong with staying lean and keeping your lifestyle under control.The Simple Dollar has tons more great wisdom on this.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Would be interested in hearing what you would do in the big picture given all of the following circumstances:Have a personal residence that is rented out to a tenant who paid an entire year up front and will stay longer. 

You've got some great guides for important things like keyword alerts; I'd also encourage you to check out the podcasts (great inspiration, especially while working on your properties) as well as connecting with local RE groups (whether via BP or other sites like Meetup) if you haven't already.