I want to get excel in this business and trying to seek out the people that can get me there thanks!

If you are eligible for a Solo 401k, you may be able to get the best of both worlds, but it does require some self-employment activity.

That means you will report the activity on your personal return (if this is rental real estate is will be on your schedule E).In most instances, rental property is setup as a partnership.   

I don't know much about out of state LLCs but in CA there's an annual $800 fee just for having an active LLC so I'm definitely trying to avoid that since this would be a pretty small project and that would be a decent chunk of cashflow.

My wife and I are seeking guidance/advice on which sector of the real estate market to focus on in the Houston MSA.

3) if there’s decent equity after his and others’ sweat and material, and he wants to take on the challenge, he’s back at step 1; seeking real legal counsel on his standing with the lender(s). 

I feel as though I have a strong understanding of a few strategies and I'm ready to go from constantly analyzing deals to actively looking for deals. 

And not to forget i am an active tenant.

I also have a degree in accounting, but I don't actively work in that field.

But you should at least attend some meetings and let them know you are a homeowner in the community and that you're interested in being an active participant.