The best way to learn how to estimate the repair cost IMO is just google the item you need replacing to get a price or go to Lowe's or Home Depot and just walk around and look at the prices.

Walking in the front door of the office to meet the staff, gauge the atmosphere, and view the office itself is the best way to size up how well a company will take care of you.If the staff and office are in disarray, you and your property won't be far behind.     

@Daniel S.Don't forget that there's a 10% early withdrawal fee (age > 59-1/2) in addition to the taxes.

Learn how to say "no" and walk away from some deals and trust your gut.  

Becoming an agent has costs to operate Day 1 which includes: additional car insurance (required to drive people around), licensing fees, dues (state and national), fees to operate a Supra key, to be on MARIS (MLS), prepaid legal fees, etc.

Being in Escrow, I have a fine line to walk before muddying the lines and my role, so investing has been hard to do.

We have been living with the house as-is, and a found a number of additional problems with it.  

Additionally, since you are earning a good wage you qualify as accredited investor.  

I'm a SD resident entering the game and buying two SFH's in the KC, MO suburbs and am looking for recommendations on local (San Diego) CPAs that specialize in REI, and specifically have a knowledgeset for investors with holdings outside California.In addition, as someone starting out with their first holdings, any recommendations on things to specifically knock out right off the bat with my new CPA would be much appreciated!

This translates into $204K over the life, in addition to the small down payment.