NPV=R*(1-(1+i)^n/i )- initial investmentIn the above formula,R is the net cash inflow expected to be received in each period;i is the required rate of return per period;n are the number of periods during which the project is expected to operate and generate cash inflows.But most folks use the spreadsheet to make life easier (see below)Account Closed,  see if using a spreadsheet makes it a bit more clear. if you NPV is different you are probably using a different discount rate, so check that.

Im excited I finally have my "why" and I know the steps I want to take to get there.

I feel like my understanding of the business has increased substantially in these 3 short months but I believe it is now time to take the next step and get myself out there.

We were thinking of starting with an initial 100k investment.

I can tell you that it has been a great place to invest even though the initial cash flow is behind most other locales. 

You can hunt the seller down at times You will be of a few investors who have taken that additional step.

What are the initial steps that need to be taken?

If the sheriff's office already issued the Sheriff's Deed, it's most likely too late for you to take any steps to avoid paying the realty transfer taxes. 

A step into that direction included me getting involved on the internet.

Great to see you take that first and maybe most difficult step in real estate investment: reaching out on BiggerPockets.