For example, i've read some articles that suggest taking the NOI and divide by typical cap rate in your area to help determine the properties value.  

I just read a random article and found it fascinating and i kept reading until now Im sure this is what i want to do with my future.

hey @John Petersen ,I wrote a mini article in a post showing exactly step-by-step how to set up a lead generation funnel for sellers through Facebook ads check it out here if your interested 

and only when you understand this should you map it to a strategy that is in line with your unique skills and motivations3) You will need discipline and an execution plan - being your own boss is great but you also need to figure out how to be your own best employee4) Define a plan and set interim milestones - being an entrepreneur can be a lonely profession and success is not a straight line so plan for getting yourself some small wins and maintain a long term perspective to help get you past short term challenges.5) Understand what constraints leaving full time employment will eliminate e.g. more time to focus on real estate, and what constraints it will introduce e.g. less income and ability to get credit6) Understand that you will need a team to succeed so make sure that the people in your life on whom you depend on for support are fully behind youHere is an article that I wrote that might be of additional help - https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/11782/88425-want-success-here-are-ten-things-you-must-give-upGood luck, going on your own has got enormous upside potential but it is not pain free.

Now I can start searching for articles pertaining to rental/fire insurance on here.

Great article! 

However, I believe you, sir, could be misleading new or potential investors to the current state of the Houston market by linking an article from 14 months ago!!!!

I've posted a few articles both on our website (below in the signature) as well as the blog I have here on BPBut those investors have also studied the local market a lot, talked with local professionals, and networked with other investors to help them understand the risks more.The meetup I help organize out here in Seoul is all about overseas investors looking to invest in the US or other countries. 

the Poughkeepsie journal wrote a recent article that dutchess county has an extremely low vacancy rate.

Also give this article a read.HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS USING BIGGER POCKETS