There are also several trades there and by listening in on others' discussions, it should lead into some networking. 

I think your posts illustrate your dedication to the industry and your trade.

I'm dead-sold on building a rental property portfolio when I come back to Texas in 2015 sometime to the DFW area.Can anyone recommend a method to hone my deal-finding skills while abroad? 

Indeed, the thought of pulling out walk-ins and hoods has kept me from going full ahead with a repurpose, hoping someone with some skill will step in to operate a fully functional space.

It can be really hard work and have lots of ups and downs but I certainly wouldn't trade owning real estate for other methods of creating wealth

I believe self directed IRAs are compelling vehicles to make passive real estate investments, but there are certainly trade offs. 

With your skill set, I'd recommend you take that $15k and buy a cheap house.

Offer your time or trade a service to help them and in return they should let you shadow them on a deal.

How difficult would it be to do a trade for a MF, considering I found the right deal?

I am a wholesaler from Richmond, VA and I am here to network, learn even more "tricks of the trade", and build my buyers list.