My hopes would be if we can both proceed without an agent, we can cut additional costs out of the equation. 2) If we decided to proceed, what is the next order of operations?

Closed in October 2013 at $152,000Over the next few years, I made some additions and repairs (new bedroom, bathroom, and extra kitchen in the basement), and now got two housemates - completely covered my mortgage payments.2015 rolls around and I start studying real estate a little bit more.

After doing some additional "credit score" research, I've decided that 600 is certainly not shooting too high as most consider that in the fair to poor range.

In addition there is a huge amount of rental properties as well so those temporary displaced can get lodging during the rebuilding.  

Additionally, most exemptions require some type of filing with federal or state securities regulators (or both) notifying them which exemption you are claiming - and giving them jurisdiction over you in case you do it wrong.

I also put an additional 20k into it.

In addition to this, I have been keeping a keen eye on the Sheriff Sales in my area.  

Watch out for fine print that requires an additional fee at closing.

in addition I'm in the process of financing a 4 family (on the personal banking side) better terms and conditions.

., @Brandon JohnsonYeah one tenant had renter's insurance but you have to have additional flood AND rising water insurance for them to cover anything (if they don't deny deny).