Prices seem reasonable, but since we dont know much about the area, we'd like to talk to a realtor/broker or two while we are there and build relationships.

Take a long hard look at that number.After being in the management business the the past 12-13 years and now managing over 5,000 properties, you start to understand the relationship between income and stability. 

Also, building relationships is crucial to your success in finding deals. 

-The old job that is waiting for me is a government organization and I’ve historically found most people in gov work to be less than stellar employees sophistication wise.

Keep in mind that you will have to bridge a limited relationship with the park manager and let them know that you are a family friend helping the seller to sell the property.

I myself and am a newbie and lurker, DFW and Fort Worth in general seem to all have several resources for developing relationships and networking - which I think is one of the cornerstones of growing your knowledge in investments!

*This post does not create an attorney-client or CPA-Client relationship.

I don't have a property management relationship yet, but I'll call around tomorrow during my lunch and see if they can help validate my estimated $1k per side. 

As an agent that specializes in working with investors, I personally have multiple agents that know my investment criteria that will bring me deals first because of my established relationship with them.

That's just the beginning.Build your team including those that brokers know and have a good reputation.Get your business plan together that includes investment targets and criteria.Next step is to build long term lasting relationships with multifamily brokers.