@Danny McCarthy your work background shows in your systematic approach.You should also set yourself a deadline for buying a rental.For local clubs, check out REIAofOakland, MREI & Renegade Detroit Investors.Regarding your plans, great approach for first 1-2 properties, but then you'll have scaling challenges.

Have you checked on AirDna or similar sites to see whether short term rentals make sense in Binghamton? 

2) Check out some of the local meetups that you can find in this forum!

I'm not sure how AZ pays, but you'd want to check the GSA website to get an idea of per diem rates in your area.

It's best to check with the Houston Permitting Center to determine the specific requirements for your property.Generally, the permitting process will involve submitting plans and obtaining approvals from various city departments, such as the Planning Department and Building Department.

I don't want to buy a property and find out it needs knocking down, so doing all checks necessary is what I intend to try and do.Any help would be great!

I always tell them no for a number of reasons, one being that the background check usually takes at least 1 day.

For example, you close a deal with a $10K commission check and pay a 30% referral fee or $3,000.

Do it. check that off your list and move on with your life.

Have you checked into whether or not there is a meetup already established in your area?