We've done some out-of-state turnkey deals, but have started focusing more on acquiring deals in our local market so we can have more control over the process.

Do not forget that curb appeal to possible buyers will make a difference.Have everything that you the owner in be under your control.  

For our personal residence, we have identified areas that have good middle and high schools, which include Frisco, McKinney, Prosper, Plano, Providence Village, and Wylie.  

I think I am going to take the course and then decide whether I want the license or not.My mains reason for wanting my license are to be able to look at property whenever I choose and to control my deals.Thanks,Ed

I don't understand why investors now are being called "wholesalers" - if a person is an investor - and if that person is good at investing - that investor controls or buys real estate at wholesaler prices. 

I'd be careful when getting close to the end of the draw period in case you cannot refinance right away.Just be careful to have a plan to reimburse the HELOC quickly if rates were getting out of control since your primary residence is on the line!

You can control the size of the area by the +/- map size, use a square foot range and control the time frame by choosing 30, 60, 90 days.

Stay in control of everything you are responsible for.  

They recently ran Uber out of town, put restrictions on short term rentals, and some members of the city council have great ideas like rent control.

Keep control of everything you you are responsible for.