Lots of resources.  

I hope you find these helpful.Landlording on Autopilot by Mike ButlerBP's own The Book on Managing Rental Properties by Brandon and Heather TurnerThe Unofficial Guide to Managing Rental Properties by Melissa PrandiI think it'd be worth the time to also look specifically at books or resources on how to manage property managers, as an out-an-state investor with regard to Texas.  

Hard money is expensive, but most larger flippers have more resources and are not going to pay 15% and points on their money, I assume.Best,JTM

Looking to start putting my thoughts to action and start my path to financial freedom.

I believe it is a proven path to financial freedom that almost everyone can achieve. 

Any sub-lease activity would ONLY be to a traveling professional vetted by myself, a fellow owner and investor, and there would be financial upside above market rents for any willing owner.

Are there any resources anyone would recommend to a note neophyte?

Read books, read all the resources on this website, get an education about this business. 

And of course making a quicker financial gain would be a nice start but I do 100% ultimately want to own income properties. 

It's the starting point to becoming financially free, and out of the "rat race".