I am looking for advice on how to start and where to start just trying to learn all i can before making big mistakes and paying for them later, I am a big believer in education because i know it is the key or shortcut to not waste unneed time.Thanks 

Has the oil down turn effected the Houston market very much?

Once again before you waste a trip down here I would suggest linking up with a few local either wholesalers or real estate agents....set up a few calls with people first before coming down.But 19125/Fishtown is one of the hottest area's in the country for investing.

Yeah the Auction companies I have found to be a waste.

My goal at the time was to build a large enough "war chest" so I could get into real estate and be effective. 

Granted, it might be slightly difficult to gain access via an agent as their assistant unless they know you already, but it's a good way to get access if you don't want to be an agent and waste your time and money getting a license just for MLS access, and who wants to keep doing continuing education that means nothing to you?

2. effect my Fannie and Freddy cap of 4 properties?

I want to learn how to be the most effective and efficient project manager possible so that we can accomplish this in the least stressful way. 

Reaching owners can be tricky.....mail is easy (you'll have their name and address), but may be limited in effectiveness. 

I use legal shield for this kind of advice because it is very cost effective.