So should I get pre-approved now just to see where I stand so I can have a more realistic idea or no since it effects my credit?

Long term not a lot different I would want cash flowing properties that have a realistic chance of 2% appreciation a year. 

I welcome advice about how realistic my goals are.I'm learning a lot from the BP community.

Offer to buy them coffee or lunch or bring them a deal or two.As you chart your course, what questions do you have in going from point A to B (to then C, D,...)People want to help newbies who are realistic and coachable.

While I know those kinds of deals do happen from time, it's just not realistic to expect, and holding out for them is just wasting your time.

If I spent $1,000 a month for six months I'd realistically only get 1 or 2 sales over that 6 month period, correct?

up the expenses a bit. add in reserves, legal/accounting, water/sewer, and trash. looks like actual NOI is around 15k. divide that by the cap rate and you'll have a realistic price.

You could adjust the numbers for what is more realistic to your situation.

I'm taking it slow and steady, but I can feel the momentum building already as the first property is cashflowing $400/month ($250 realistically if I'm putting back maintenace/vacancy etc).

If you filed for eviction now best case scenario you 30 days from having them out (more realistically 60-90 days) plus legal cost.