Build your confidence by knowing other real estate investors in real life.

.: Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Dana YobstBlows my mind how he is out there still teaching classes and going on as nothing happened but it sounds like these debts are not getting substantially paid down.As many of us know, one of the main reasons he's able to continue on is with the help of this other self proclaimed criminal https://weclosenotes.com/ep-nc-03-protecting-yourself-using-a-corporate-veil-with-aaron-young-from-laughlin-associates/ Using a remote entity to limit liability is a life blood of insuring investment into all types of job creating, life saving and life improving business development.  

You have a full plan that, over time, results in a better way of life and more time with family.

Inspections may cost more upfront, but they can save you from significant headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.Negotiate Hard: Use inspection findings as leverage.If the HVAC is near the end of its life, negotiate a credit for its replacement.If the cast iron plumbing is deteriorating and needs replacement, ask for a credit as well.Sellers often prefer negotiating credits over doing the work themselves.To give you an example: I was once under contract for an old house priced at $170,000.

I am all for taking risks in life, but we also have a 1 year old son now and I don't want to jeopardize the life we've built so far.

I couldn't get it banned for the life of me.  

If you're 25 or 35 and that monthly rent check gives you an extra vacation a year for the rest of your life, that might be fun too.Good luck and congratulations for being in the path of progress I guess.

However, I'm now reading Dave Meyer's book Start With Strategy to learn more about whether long-term residential rentals is even the best approach or if I should be looking into other strategies, in light of my overall goal.After Start With Strategy I plan to read Set For Life by Scott Trench, but what other recommendations do you guys have at the strategic level?

Add a very diversified economy here with banking, insurance, oil and gas, education, three medical schools, 3 law schools, life sciences, DFW airport, and so much more, it looks like the growth just goes on and on.As far as appreciation goes, that's always tough to predict. 

Balance what you are learning through KW on how to be an agent and in the real estate class (much better basis for investors in real life than agents) with going to real estate investor meetups in your area.