I'm thinking that placing lots of $50,000 bets in a lot of different markets is the safest way to invest right now.

If I bought a rental I would probably sweat a bit taking money from my personal checking account to afford a repair.I agree with you that flipping is a good way to build up some cash so I think this might be my best bet in order to accomplish my goals.Side note: do you think my goals of owning enough rental properties to make 300k+ annually is unrealistic?

Good news is rates on FHA loans are fantastically low because of the direct government guarantee. i think this will likely be your best bet for a multi-family purchase unless you have the means (and want) to put more cash into a purchase. 

Your best bet is probably to file a COF with a name that is available and then obtain a DBA. 

I bet we're going to see more of this, now.

I have built and fined tuned systems to minimize my involvement with the rental properties and have more of a turn key type of business by understanding the business and finding reliable and trustworthy contractors and real estate agents.  

A mentor is your best bet; or just focus on finding someone who needs your help (as in a potential seller in distress). 

If you're doing something major like moving walls, adding a deck, or doing extensive electrical, I'd get a permit and ask for help from a licensed, experienced contractor. 2) Look in the Education section for business plans. 3) I'm not sure about the transfer piece but I bet you can find your answer in the forums.

I bet your second description describes more of us than would like to admit it :)

But unless I have a trustworthy partner in that area to do the daily managing, I'd be better off staying closer to home.