Perhaps when you are comfortable you know what you are doing.Paul

Then there are those who are comfortable investing in bad neighborhoods and know how to make it work. 

Are they comfortable investing for a period of time or are they looking for shorter-term investments?  

So I feel comfortable that that particular listing has folks involved with expertise in this area.

Wouldn't a motivated seller feel more comfortable letting me into their home if its me that they initially talked to?

As to your question in depends on your comfort zone . 

That's comforting to know as there are some nice properties up and down that area from the airport right up to Target field.

However, I can't currently qualify for a conventional VA loan not due to credit (750), but a fair amount of debt ($20,000) and very high child support as the only working parent.It is my understanding that residential properties (even fourplex units) cannot use current tenants' income to qualify for a loan (please correct me if I am wrong.)

@Ashley Pittman It is okay to go slow, and figure out what you are comfortable with.

If you feel comfortable with a handyman with enough experience, you may be able to get away by going that route and have him act as the GC in the process.