I would suggest you save up as much as you can while you are doing your homework to be able to bring to the table when you find a deal that you want. 

I've done several house-hacks personally with different strategies as well and have helped many clients do them in Pinellas/Hillsborough/Pasco/Manatee counties as well so if you have questions let me know and I can give you a rundown of your best options based on your preferences.If you don't want, or don't need to house-hack, then you have a couple options and that is going to depend on your goals, savings rate, and other details. 

But that was really the crux of my plan so I can’t fault myself there, buying all those houses gave me control.

Whenever I find a job or opportunity in Austin, I plan to move there.  

I agree though... you either roll up your sleeves and make some sacrifices if you plan to DIY or you hire out the hard work and are happy to pay for the privilege. 

I think it might make more sense for me to continue to rent my current apartment due to the conveniences and being able to walk to work versus moving into one of the units in the multiplex as I had originally planned.

Tax preparers usually charge another $500 to prepare the 3115 calculation schedules per property so that saves you money.  

My question is should I already plan to collect the basement rent in a separate bank account or is that not necessary?

With this we will be able to save quite a bit more for future purchases.  

Start saving for another down payment and in a few years, take a look at investment properties then.