Also,we have the option of a VA loan, I’d like to save that to use for a bigger property investment like multi family, but does anyone have any suggestions for me otherwise-to use the VA loan for SFH or save it? 

Hello bigger pockets members,I am looking for a quality skip trace website to locate potential sellers on abandoned properties I find while driving for dollars. any suggestions?

Go with a well established bigger outfit may be best. 

I plan on purchasing mf in the downtowns of the cities surrounding Houston, mainly those with a more “Americana” type of feel( white picket fences, 4th of July block parties, neighbors worship together, founding families are still around and they let you know it, high walkability score, families are out on the street with neighbors, doors are unlocked.....)It is tough to comp certain property because they might be the only type (or one of the only two) AND some of these towns do not allow any more MF to go up, so the MF owners set the market.

I am very new to the Bigger Pockets web site and podcast and have really enjoyed it.

I've been on the Bigger Pockets for a while but not really active on any of the forums (until now).I'm a full-time scientist and I actually really like what I do.

The bigger thing for you will be to make sure you are established correctly before you buy anything in the US.

Welcome to bigger pockets!

Not sure on all the details of exactly how appraisers work but from my understanding cracks in the ceiling (even if they aren't a marker of a bigger problem) can be a great thing to fix.

Welcome to bigger pockets and good luck on your REI journey !