Of course, there are still risks with both of those, but can be a 1-3 days for funds, no hassle solution.

Of course I've used google and found a ton of websites and things but I'm wondering what resources and trending patterns you all have found to be exceptionally helpful when learning the ins and outs of your markets and sub-markets. 

Please recommend anyone who fits the bill.I could also use some recommendations for GCs familiar working with HMLs (draws).

You'd also have to consider selling or renting your current house.There are other things you can do with that amount of capital, but these two seem to fit your stated goals best.Feel free to give me a call if you want to chat.You should check out the local meetup too, you'll find a bunch of locals (and vets) that are already actively investing. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/59...

I have raised my credit score over 150 in the past year after I took a course on understanding the credit system.

The first thing I said to my friend is that it doesn't sound like too bad of an idea but of course get a title search. 

Of course there is snow and ice which can be a liability for a landlord.

Because I've been around lending so long, it was a good fit, my husband helped me get going and I've been fortunate to ride the wave of alternative lending. 

It made sense to make the investment- so long as you can convince a buyer of this, of course.

If they don't ask for more info, they aren't interested.An "after the deal was done" spreadsheet I did for an investor is at https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/600/topics/58...Every deal is different of course, but you want to look for a Safe investment (cash flow or flip, etc) that has returns that are greater than they can get in their current investment.