If you are interested in finding Mentors, I recently wrote "The Ultimate Guide to Finding Incredible Mentors" - check it out!

Your time here will be well spent.Since you mentioned an interest in the three most popular niches, I added the below links for your review.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/07/flipping-houses/ (step by step guide to flips)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

The taxes are incredibly high for this type of commercial property and I was hoping somebody might have some advice on why it is so high and how/if it can be adjusted.

I was incredibly concerned about finding tenant after reading all the horror stories but at least in my case it was an incredibly smooth/fast process.

I'm sure it would be incredibly helpful to be from the construction industry, in order to do your renovation estimate and manage or do the projects yourself. 

Not permitted, especially on something like a whole new floor, can be incredibly tough.

Finance--Car loans are incredibly cheap.

REI meetings`and materials appear to be the most popular, the organization is well established in the investor trenches. 

We have had many, many clients from the various courses, classes and seminars by all of the popular gurus.  

My son is in his fourth year teaching English in Asia and it has been an incredible experience for him, as I hope it was for you!