You could possibly do a bridge loan, maybe a 6-12 month term to pull some of the equity and rehab, then sell or refi if you plan to hold.

., one unit of a duplex, top floor of SFH) will need to be a LTR for the co host?

Do you plan on buying a multi family property because you can't use an FHA mortgage to purchase a single family residence as a rental. 

Are you planning to invest locally in Texas or are you open to investing out-of-state?

These are just a few ways to begin making contacts and learning about the strategies available to you.Once you decide on a strategy, I'd recommend connecting with an investor-friendly lender who will give you an idea of how much you qualify to borrow for your first property.As you progress in this initial research phase, your goals and action plans will become clearer.All the best!

Advise is to get in contact with a lender that has experience in structuring these mortgages where you can move on to the next one and plan ahead.

Future plans to make cosmetic upgrades over time as units become vacant to maximize future cash flows by increasing rents and finishing apartments to a high level that will encourage long term tenancy.

However, while we were cleaning up, we treasure hunted out at least $3000 stuff, including $300 cash on the floor, several un-opened Amazon boxes, new-in-box computer/gaming items, hair tool ($300), YouTuber's gadgets, new with tag heated jacket ($220), an unassembled exercise bench ($500 at least), so many new or near new stuff that you can sell.

You have to identify the exact addresses of the properties you plan to buy within 45 days of your sale.

Original plan was to build 3-5 years down the road, but now with the lot fully paid off and significantly appreciated, I would like to use this equity to kickstart real estate investing into cash flowing properties.