We would greatly appreciate any advice on promising markets, recommendations for reliable agents and lenders, as well as insights on how to proceed as newcomers to the industry.

Sorry to hijack your post, but I am curious about the possibility of doing STR in this area as well. 

@Drew Sygit - this is some fantastic information, well structured and too the point.

To get into real estate investing at a young age with strong credit, think about plans like living in one part while renting the rest, making friends in the field, beginning with bite-sized properties, using savings and credit well, and eyeing areas that might grow.

Notes:*This value is based on rental comps in the area as well as the current lease agreement for one tenant**Prior years' operating expenses were estimated based on current owner's actual operating expenses as provided by the listing agent.

@Mark Cruse knows Baltimore very well and can probably give you good advice. 

However, I would like to gain some practical experience in the world of Notes as well.

You can start real estate investing, reading resources, familiarizing yourself with the Albany, GA market, setting short-term and long-term goals, preparing financially, building a team, conducting property searches, conducting due diligence, making an offer, managing property, and joining local groups.

If I have had a notary sign the Quit Claim Deed as well as my grandfather, is it a problem that I have not filed it yet or can I do that some time in the future?

Absentee owners are a plus as well...you're really looking to find someone who already has a property manager, does not live locally, and is underperforming (but with a good property/location).