Am I going to need to hire an architect to design the plans? 

The restoration company is recommending that the floor be torn up and walls be opened to allow for more direct contact of the microbial compound.Estimated floor replacement is upwards of $3500 (conservative, I think) plus the dry wall work.I'm comforted and relieved to find that my lease holds the tenant responsible for such an event.

I recommend picking an area you're familiar and comfortable with to get started.

Whether that is deciding on postcard design, buying postcards, buying a mailing list, stuffing letters, mailing letters, taking calls, making calls, etc. if you do something each day towards your goal you're making progress.

Obviously some investors will be more comfortable with that than others, and it's really up to the platforms to keep those standards high if they want to remain long-term players.

It really depends on what exactly you are trying to do and the banks level of comfort/familiarity with what it is you want to do.

If you are not comfortable submitting your W2's, paystubs etc via email to lender that gives you best rate and APR from zillow, and having little to no correspondence after initial phone conversation, then you might consider mortgage brokers in your area.

I have 3 GC's that I use a lot. message me for their contact info, i dont believe i can put it within the post.1 Eric- my goto guy, also has a interior designer (free)2 Linda- Cheapest new build prices i have found3 Leo- with asset safe

Its not ideal but thats what he is comfortable with and it pretty much puts him at almost zero risk. 

@Miles StanleyBlair Poelman and others have answered it well.I am not yet comfortable buying any real estate that is in any way risky, so I always go for clear title with title insurance.