I would recommend doing one or two small SFH or 3-4 plex deals, and then jump up to the 20-40 unit apartment buildings.

The important points often glossed over are (1) is the buyer providing their personal guarantee to the seller for the note (2) is the seller maintaining a wrap position so they can foreclose in the event of default and gain ownership (3) is the buyer putting up additional collateral (4) how large is the down payment (5) what is the LTV (6) is this a personal residence for the seller or investment property (7) will the property cash flow and if so what will the cash flow be (8) is the property in a increasing, declining, or stabilized area (9) is the property being sold at market value, or above market value because of the low interest rate of the existing mortgage and (10) how experienced and what is the track record of the buyer, and is the buyer purchasing a property for investment or to live in or otherwise use.  

With the growing demand for both urban living in cities like Austin and suburban areas surrounding Dallas and Houston, where do you think the next big wave of homebuyers is heading?

What you lose in fees is quickly made up by the higher rate of growth.

I'm in the process of replacing my siding.Does anybody know if there's better resale value for vinyl clapboard or vinyl dutch lap siding?

What are the numbers on the property?

DELETE! 

That's why we have our LLCs and the set up we do-- complete separation.

Your best investment is in yourself.Consider going to college or learning a trade.Use the funds to invest in something that does not require much time so you can focus on learning.If you do decide to get into real estate, you may want to consider doing a house-hack.It will give you a place to live(potentially saving you a few hundred dollars from paying rent and also giving you training wheels for being a landlord).

Yes, the form must be notarized by the agent.