I am looking to quarterback the entire operation with the help of my team to lead me to the end zone while funding the entire drive. 

Look at properties, drive the neighborhoods, understand the processes. 

"I am leaning toward a $100/month reduction" You are leaning in the wrong direction by allowing emotions to drive your business.

We do, however, have some unknowns that we want to investigate before closIng, and have an inspectIon period once the contract is sIgned.While thIs has been developing, we’ve been driving for dollars and mailing to property owners.

I am a Magnolia resident and I drive by that building every day!

Though I did do a lot of "pre-elimination", just by driving past a house for sale and seeing it's neighborhood/condition.   

But I can't find enough deals and it's driving me nuts.

Can anyone recommend any Real Estate Agents that are Investor Friendly in the Los Angeles / Long Beach surrounding areas?

So far I am considering investing in: Oklahoma City, OK (and surrounding suburbs)Houston, TXJackson, MSMobile, ALI’m very excited to begin networking with folks on the site and if there is ever anything I can do to help, please let me know.

Otherwise my wife would be trying to drive by everyday to check on the property putting me in a bad place.2) IRA does all the funding.