I've gotten a ton of info from the epic real estate investing podcast and cash flow savvy.Is it realistic or feasible to buy a house by the end of the year?

If this is an unusual property type in the area and the stores are empty would it be feasible to change the zoning with the town and say change the stores into residential units?

Is it even feasible, or should I put off investing in real estate until I have a lot of money.

So, pursuing both is very feasible.

Does anyone have any thoughts as to which approach is friendlier for a beginner and/or more feasible in the greater Boston area?

So...2) Visit as many local (active) RealEstate clubs, or REIAs as feasible and ask everyone you meet, "who are the active investors in this part of town?"

In general, I am hoping to understand estimated costs AND to gain a better understanding of the process (is this terribly unrealistic or feasible based on scale).http://u.zillow.com/p2jtLC/Thanks!  

Overall, my initial research suggests that high short-term cap-rates may be feasible, but I'd be concerned about the lack of scarcity of land; presumably someone can just start building another newer-and-better development so supply might increase significantly.It seems Kissimmee is slightly skewed toward families visiting Disney while Davenport may be a bit more on golfers, but would love someone to corroborate this.Also, I would seek to invest and manage these properties (no more than 1 or 2 to start) remotely.  

I'm just not certain how feasible it will be to get approved for the mortgage on my own. 

Short sale seems like the only feasible solution to getting out of the property.