House hacking a multi-unit is the best way to get started since you’re, if done right, paying minimal to potentially no monthly payment out of your pocket. 

I basically got these homes for free without using any out of pocket cash to scale up.

There is an "arrears" that has to be identified and paid out of pocket before the sale or the loan needs to be paid off in full. 

I struggle with that myself.Insurance broker - I can introduce you to a couple of great agents, but they are not on Bigger Pockets, so I cannot tag them.

We lack the experience of you and your husband, but there are a couple of groups that meet regularly in the area.Impact Lindale is run by Roger Paschal, he is also a member of Bigger Pockets.

AlbertoWelcome to bigger pocket. 

Quote from @Chris Primavera: I am located in Ohio and like many people I have researched and read about, tired of the 9-5 grind and putting money into someone else's pockets.

Look if you are determined to spend your money on a course, go to the Bigger Pockets seminar!  

We are looking into houses on the lower end of the scale at first to get started for a "low risk" (we could pay mortgage out of pocket no problem even if property is vacant for 30 years) house that will give us the experience we need as rental home landlords - and I am looking down the road at potential investment ideas to keep this thing rolling.

You turn right and people willing to sell below market value chase you.You turned left.So you complain to your favorite Guru that you are not getting much luck with your mailers calls and texts.3 guesses what EVEY PERSON on Bigger Pockets is going to tell you?"