Just go to the MLS website and take down the addresses of all the properties you're interested in, create a route on google maps, hand write a short note for each, and go stick it on their door.

Should I create an LLC in Michigan and keep both properties under the one in Michigan or open 2 LLCs (1 in MI and 1 in TX)?

Most deals are coming from equity sellers, investors creating value (new construction, ADUs, adding square footage, etc.), and very last is MLS.

Paying down a mortgage is creating artificial cash flow and is not "investing".

I can just create a contract and pay him monthly after if he agrees correct? 

So technically it doesn't have to hold anything up or create a delay.You're not too late to get something going. 

customers I hadn't planned on acquiring.

You need to create some form of a tenant selection plan and before they apply they will know what your criteria is.. example 600 credit score 3x income etc.

We added a patio slider door and created a deck, I always like to do this because it is relatively inexpensive, however is a great selling feature.

While it's great that unemployment has gone down, average wages have gone down more than 1% meaning people might have a job, but those entry level jobs don't really pay muchInventory for home purchases are significantly depressedDepressed inventory is creating higher prices (the old supply and demand)Increasing interest rates are also hitting people's debt ratios, so where they were able to buy a property last year with a 50% debt ratio, that same property has gone up in value and there has also been about a .5% to .75% increase in the interest rate.