Do some data-based analysis to determine if this investment makes sense as opposed to emotion driven decision making.

I am based out of Charlottesville and am just starting to do flips here.

Along with negotiating the feasibility period and due diligence periods I'd concurrently do 2 things based on your plan:1. talk to the solar companies in the area and understand their site selection process, how they structure their deals, how they operate, etc. 2. talk to the power company and see if they need more renewable energy and if building another solar project in that area makes sense. 

If you are just basing your analysis off of numbers, you'll be drawn to the Midwest.

If the higher insurance rates are a concern for you I suggest staying away from the high rises for now.We are surrounded by multiple military bases so there is always someone buying, selling or looking for rentals in our area and surrounding areas.

You may connect with investors, exchange ideas, and get help through platforms like BiggerPockets, real estate Facebook groups, and LinkedIn groups.Make Connections with Experts: Speak with Houston-based bankers, contractors, property managers, real estate brokers, and other experts in the field.

Based on the purchase price and loan circumstances, your lender or real estate agent can tell you an estimate of these expenses.Rehab Costs: To determine the price of the duplex's required repairs and renovations, get quotations from builders or property inspectors.

I also have company stock thru Voya as a 401k match.

There is no such thing as a "standard fee," however each agent has a fee that they typically use based on how they want to get paid.

Our internal team is there to help you review rehab bids, inspection reports, analyze different exit strategies based on your updated numbers throughout the project, and help you work with different lenders and insurance agents that we refer you to.