Jon is absolutely right.I would establish a relationship with a private lender and structure a line of credit.

Hud is extremely harsh on activity it can find operating outside of their established mechanisms!

Utilize a RE agent if you must but make sure the tenant is compliant with YOUR screening criteria.

I definitely like the idea of utilizing multiple strategies.

Future tenants will be paying the utilities.

At least in that capacity you can build a buyer's list with advertising and at least start to establish your presence with a home in "inventory".

So once I can get my family settled and established, I can than get my hands on some property!

I believe most of the books in the library have been somewhat vetted or they wouldn't have purchased them for agents.I also know that there are investor oriented materials as I know many Realtors that have spoken about so and so's method or system and a few Realtors attempt to incorporate investor tactics into thier business.I was hoping some of the established investors here would provide some suggestion, not only as to a book but what to dig for, what interests you or the majority.

who pays utilities?

Credit non pmts I might let medical or collections if I deem the collection to be non related to housing and utilities.