If you invested $55k in a portfolio earning a healthy 8% compound interest, you'd get to $1M in just under 40 years. 

(Once you filed for the TDA, you will earn the 18% (1.5%/month) on the ENTIRE amount including any interest that accrued before you filed the TDA.You can bid at the tax deed auction but my understanding is that you have no advantage at the auction over anyone else who attends the auction and bids.  

As stated interest rates are practically free today so paying down any mortgage as opposed to investing in more properties to make your money actually earn it's keep is the only logical option.Do you want your money to work for you or would you rather hide it away and forget about it.  

article=gbo&section=17-303&ext=html&session=2016RS&tab=subject5Not sure if you're considering a career as an agent or just want MLS access and to save or earn some money representing yourself in transactions, but below is a how to guide from BP.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/12/04/how-to-become-a-real-estate-agent/

Mark A.I am not a 2nd or 3rd generation of super rich, I am just an average employee in Silicon Valley, making what would be considered a very slightly above average salary...I bought a handful properties in San Francisco starting in 08, the previous peak, and was losing $1000/door/month for 3-5 years...

I'm sure there are people who have had positive experiences with USREEB or any other "turnkey" provider - all power to them - but regardless of whoever you choose, do your research on the company, the people, and the product before spending your hard-earned cash. 

It depends a lot on how high between your peaks and valleys if is more than say 1/2", most leveling materials are not design to fill in that much.

We are based in Austin and with a desire for cash flow, we are looking in the Temple/Waco areas.Would anyone be able to share the monthly rate they are earning from properties in either of these towns?

So naturally my bids are coming in much higher than I anticipated when I first got quotes, and I'm worried that building at peak prices will result in a potentially significant loss once building costs and corresponding home values in the neighborhood normalize.

For some the emotional attachment to your hard earned investment (as well as all the other things that come with landlording) can prove to be rather frustrating.