I have been reading books, studying online, going to seminars in my area, and I am just starting to listen to all the podcast on the site.Although I live in NY, the market is extremely difficult to get into as a newbie investor, as most would know.

I have been evaluating properties on sites like Zillow but I'm not sure how accurate my estimates are on things like property tax or more importantly rent.Let me know if anyone has comments, concerns, or just general tips for getting started.

Any tips on good things to look for, questions to ask, pitfalls to avoid? 

Online marketing is very competitive.

That's dangerous.1)Get it from looking up other going rate rents online for rentals comparable to yours online2) call the agent your using the MLS and get real comps3) google local property managers and get their opinion.

Hi Shawn,I would recommend taking the classes online.

That said, I don't think it's a good fit for someone out of town (Denver or CA) with little knowledge of the area who are looking for a low cost entry into the real estate game.

Our current game plan is to move in and do some minor updates if needed and then after a year move to a new house and rent the previous. 

Even if an architect is not required to stamp the drawings, you will need drawings from somewhere whether that is purchasing online, through a builder, etc.

The agents will see the sign too, but not as many as will harvest the FSBO online ads - after all, they have to get up and out to see a sign, but they can find the online ads while sitting on their butt so it's less effort to harvest online.