I am in the process of saving up money.

I agree, if your not familiar with an area then networking with someone who has done deals in that area can save you huge headache, and a lot of money.

I highly suggest making sure your lease options contracts are separate and are done correctly in order to decrease liability and maximize your returns.We market our properties by putting signs in the property or by hanging door hangers in the neighborhood.  

I would maximize the 2hrs everyday and lock down some deals first before doing something stupid.

We'd draw up a loan agreement and everything but it'd save a lot of time and hassle since I'm essentially the one approving the loan to myself. 

Initially, our plan was to save the cash flow until we had enough to put 30% down on our next purchase, but we learned more and went in a few different directions.

I'm not sure what your financing strategy is for your early phases, but it will save you time and money in the long run if you're familiar with all your options now.

Make sure the higher interest rate does not offset what you are saving in PMI.Also the logic of paying more interest to save taxes is nonsense. 

I would go with a broker to save myself the time, effort and headache.

Save your sale, and shell out a couple grand to get this fixed.