So we were essentially down to studs and concrete every where that was wet within 48 hours of the flood. 

That doesn't count the numerous other resources that have come from this site, many of which have been very helpful in our growth of late.  

It has worked well for us but we are investing for the future.Pure Investments- As we got our feet wet we started to buy house as pure investments with 20-25% down.

There are numerous real estate schools and colleges that offer the courses necessary to obtain a license.  

You must be very careful that you can still achieve 6 inches of exposed foundation  regardless of the slop of the lot to ensure proper drainage, otherwise you will end up with a leak and a wet house. 

I hope that this experience will help me to not only get my feet wet but also to grow my interest in RE.

This is a method I used successfully numerous times to avoid that time frame.

And I agree, I've already spent numerous hours on the site. 

Stick to tile in wet(er) areas but its been a design choice over utility choice.A little cheaper than engineered wood flooring and as long as the rest of your package looks good it generally will not matter in the buyers eye. 

ThanksWelcome to BP Johnny,We are based in Toledo.Great market with many undervalued properties.Don't be scared of failure as in order to succeed one must fail numerous times.Thanks and have a great day.