The area is growing tremendously, both houses are in great school zones.

Elizabeth, I've kicked around the idea of student housing in locations near where my sons are currently going to school. 

Not to knock schooling, I have an advanced degree myself, but I recognize that no one would work for me that I would want running my show.There is a lot showing in your frustration, I feel for you, but it's a challenging time in the industry and without experience and the advantage of having been through a few down cycles, you may just need to read about the down side of real estate to get to the next level.

Does it have to be an architect local to the state you are rehabbing/building in that would have to sign off on your plans or can any certified architect sign off on your drawings?

I feel like it wouldn't be too hard for me to make a 10k-30k mistake on my own in the school of hard knocks. 

Real Estate has always been a goal of mine since getting out of high school 2 years ago, however I never knew how to get started or what field would be most suitable for me.

I've followed BP for a while now but I have finally started taking steps toward achieving my goals. 10 years ago I wish I had entered the industry, rather than going back to school for my degree in education.

One of our immediate concerns is the school year is just starting now.

Is he in school? 

My father in law a 7th grade drop out self made millionaire used to say "KISS" keep it simple stupid..... he died 3 years ago I sure miss him.