(Also makes the calls harder as I am self-conscious of my accent, and worry people won't be able to understand me)Yes I think I'd feel more comfortable if I found one or more great deals first, and then locate the buyers.

Right after closing on a property get an insurance policy that will protect you if there is a loss.As soon as you comfortably do it after closing you should change the exterior door locks.  

They can make twice as much with the homeowners and the FEMA grants, they have no time for investors who expect cost to be based in reality.If you have money that you can comfortably risk, and you have a firm grip on the rehabs, go for it.

I'm just starting out as well n this strategy got me very comfortable with calling and talking to sellers..

Even if you aren't comfortable setting up the DST now, as you grow you will definitely want to try incorporate it into your asset protection plan in the future as you grow.

Once we get comfortable with our first unit, our goals are to look for additional multi-family homes in West Michigan and Northern Indiana (ideally within 3 hours drive of our place of residence).I'm a transplant from Oklahoma and work in the golf industry as a tournament director for a major championship.

Terms are whatever you and your lender are comfortable with, there really is no "standard" as every situation is different.

Mike Abramov - Focus in areas that you are familiar with, with companies and professionals you have interviewed, spending money that you are comfortable spend.

I cannot stress the importance of getting comfortable with those items before you invest.  

You need to choose one, at some point, and just dive deep into that area for a little while until your comfortable enough to get started.