So, getting my feet wet in a new market makes sense for me.

I recommend reading three books to get your feet wet:1 Wheelbarrow Profits2 Financial Freedom with real estate investing3 Best ever apartment syndication bookThere are podcasts by each of the above authors as well. 

It is just a bit scary as a new investor to get my feet wet because every dollar means a lot right now; but I need to do it. 

If you keep your grass mowed, wet spots under control, they need to deal with the pet.

What should I know if I want to throw a small sum at a project on there just to get my feet wet and see how it the process works? 

A wet/dry vac is all most of us need for most 'adventures' we encounter. 

Back of the bed with metal cover so you stuff wont get wet or stolen. lots of cubby holes to store tools.. a frunk for took box's  seats six  fast as a Porsche 911.. 

Keep it simple, put minimal money down, learn the ropes of underwriting a deal, buying a property, dealing with tenants/roommates, etc.After you get your feet wet with a house hack, you can consider leveraging that private money.

So here I am with un-permitted work performed in my house and a wet ceiling and damaged furniture.

I think a practical first step to getting our feet wet would be to air bnb a room or house hack.