A possible exception to the 121 rule is a job related move. 

Agents can make up to 90% and more but, full disclosure, the starting split is relatively low since I’m taking a risk by fronting all the costs.

even though relatives would live there full time?

Tornadoes are relatively localized and short compared to hurricanes, so most people don't worry about them that much.

As far as access to computers, every public library has free access and anyone under the age of 40 grew up with computers in school.

I assume you have a business credit card along with it, for business related expenses. 

Definitely start jumping into the community here and feel free to ask any questions related to Real Estate investing!

While I only have about 25K to start my investing career, I thought of an interesting way to potentially acquire the rental property...My friend owns and operates a relatively large landscaping company in our neighborhood. 

We would like to accumulate more real property at this age and hopefully start a family soon and hopefully retire early.

If it's an older building, with aging systems, like @Owen Dashner pointed out, you'll have even more expenses maintaining everythingInsurance Estimate at $720/year: if you really can insure an 8-plex for $720/year, please PM me because I'd really want to know the carrier.