Just a follow up question if you were to take Brownsville an divide it in four ways what parts would you say are the best parts of town and which parts are the worst? 

His brother died over 10 years ago and he has been taking care of the property and paying the bills and taxes ever since.How do I go about ensuring the seller has the right to sell the property. 

What steps would you recommend I take to address these problems and ensure my investment is managed properly?

Might be more motivated to take a quick sale lower offer. 

Given the last commenter's advice about waiting for someone with experience to chime in the first time, that someone has to take a risk... the issue is that there is a high likelihood it will be either a loan-to-own lender looking to obtain functioning properties or a scam.If it's true, they would have SO much business; whatever funds they have available, they would be empty in 1 month or less because that would be the best deal in town if it's true.

Welcome @Michael Sprouls and congrats on taking the first steps.

I figured, while I'm doing my own research/self paced education by reading books, I might as well take a course as well and get my RE license!

However, since he asked to paint it, I assume he wants to take the initiative.

@Scott Smith could I have a Texas series LLC take ownership of a Florida LLC  that has Florida property in it and provide the same protection or would have to have the property transferred in a Texas series LLC ?

@Jv SapanzaStarting out in real estate investing can be overwhelming, but when you take the right steps, you can build a strong start.