Investing out of your area can be challenging, but it can be done and done successfully.  

I have heard that you can roll a hamburger patty around a children's aspirin tablet to calm a small dog down.

I think the 2nd property is likely going to be the most challenging to acquire, although if the mortgage on the first place can be covered with rents, it should be possible.  

I have my wife and children all putting in work to see this business become awesome!

"once you add value, you get paid" determining how exactly to do that at times can be a challenge. 

This is very popular in CA because it allows the HO to accommodate elderly parents, grown children, even roommates.

However, from a risk management standpoint, one lender knows all your business and one lender could face challenges.

I stepped away from the forums for a few days to work on real deals.Re-reading this thread and your posts in particular, I think your biggest challenge is that you automatically get associated with all the other would-be real estate people.Part of the problem is your message.

Hello I am new to investing and have been trying to learn as much as possible in the past year.My entire family knows of this and my in-laws came to me with an idea to "help" me and also would be helping them with a Real Estate deal.Back Story- My wife's grandmother passed away last year and the estate, two properties, are to be sold and the profits spread out among the 6 children.

Now, I challenge you to take another." - Dan PoynterLastly, don't forget that we are here to help and likewise learn from your contributions.