I've had a long-standing interest in real estate and I'm finally learning and taking the steps to making my interest my future.Long term, multitenant rental holding is my biggest interest by far, and always has been.

Way to take a stand to confront your fears.

Yeah "if it ain't broke don't fix it"... but running a business with heavy competition STANDING out is essential to surviving. 

So should I get pre-approved now just to see where I stand so I can have a more realistic idea or no since it effects my credit?

Including closing costs she is coming to the table with like 11k, and then she will front 9k to the contractor to get started (she gets that back at the end of the rehab) plus she will pay the holding costs and so she may need to be 25k liquid to see the deal through, but she stands to walk with 20k - 25k in about 4 months.  100% return cash on cash. 

The deal should stand on its own. 

WHERE I CURRENTLY STAND: JUST A REAL ESTATE LICENSE.Before I get to any of the three phases however I will have to lead generate more efficiently to get the results I want.

Increase home value is partically dependent on the experience and knowledge of the appraiser but it stands to reason if you spend $10,000 to $30,000 for a solar system the value of your property should go up.  

Someone who is not afraid to offer the "low ball" offers and stand behind your position.

Actually made me think of one more question: As a young kid with no experience or capital, how do you make yourself stand out and make sure people know you are the real deal and to take you seriously?