I was laid off from my energy sector job a few weeks ago and have decided to devote full time to this venture that has been on my heart and mind for as long as I can remember. 

Always have a back-up plan and be familiar with creative investing ideas (i.e. owner financing, lease options, rent-to-own, joint venture with contractors, pre-hab wholesaling)

I started out doing residential real estate, i didn't a lot due to my crazy work and school schedule so i had stopped for a while, I realized residential wasn't really what i wanted to do.

I have this put aside for my real estate ventures. 

You'd have to venture out in the secondary markets to find a clean deal above the 1% rule.You may want to investigate @Ben Robertsadvice and check out Memphis.

I would recommend staying away from the one-stop shop (rehabbers / property mangers) as they are usually more interested in selling homes than managing them. 

In effect, one stop shopping for our clients.

Apply for at least 3 cards and stop there.

When do you stop saving for repairs? 

Would you find what you hope is less stress or take care of business and hope it stops?