It takes a few weeks longer than normal, if you really stay on top of it and get the paperwork done as quickly as possible.  

Make sure you stay compliant!

With the market where it's at your going to need to spend at least $50k to own anything worth owning.Give The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods a read.

Staying in the DFW area?

Make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing

Then, download the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide and start reading some more!!

Sydnie, the first place to start would be by signing up for a real estate class, either online or in person, to get qualify to take the TREC licensing test.I don't believe I'm allowed to post links, but go to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) website, and it will guide you through the steps.Your age/appearance could deter some potential clients, but we all have some aspects that both deter and attract people.  

Lets stay in touch.

Read books on investing in real estate, listen to the podcasts, attend webinars and stay active on the forums while connecting with other investors in your area and pick a niche.

The house is older and the tenant wants to start updating once the new agreement is signed.How can I go about this and  stay in compliance with the new laws and profit from the deal?