Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

I feel pretty set on what I want to do but some people have told me I need to be careful on what I choose and to make sure to have a fall back plan in case the market crashes or being realtor does not work out.

No obligation, you can still choose any agent you want.

E.g. if my property manager would charge one month's rent in order to find a new tenant, in addition to the lost rent while the unit sits empty plus the turnover costs (painting, carpet cleaning, etc), shouldn't vacancy rates be padded even further?

Things as simple as a front door, double pane glass, paint colors, type of paint etc all come into play.

You choose the lender and made promises.

However, doing a quick online search for say "top 10 places companies are moving to" will bring up article that may help you choose a state or city.

I'd suggest starting with some skills that you think you want to acquire (or skills that you may posses or have a natural affinity for) and choose that way.