It will spark conversations with people you didn't even think would have an interest in your services.You may be able to find a deal or 2 within your own sphere of influence.I see that you're a school principal so as long as it doesn't conflict with your position, I'd imagine that you have a lot of folks around you who trust you and your judgment.

That said, some of the following may be controversial and might spark some debate:-In TX, Curbio secures loans by a Deed of Trust against the property and recorded in the county.  

@Allen LiMark Kohler's book had a more "meaningful" message about it being an extra layer of defense. 

My hurdles to overcome before making my first investment include figuring out financing, learning to understand the market I am investing in, and developing an understanding of how to structure partnerships and/or syndications.I am looking forward to making meaningful connections on bigger pockets, and digging into the forums and educations materials available here.

My 3BR rents range from $1,425 to $2,000 which shows why it is almost impossible to give you meaningful rent data without you being more specific.At this point, I wouldn't discount the online systems such as Zillow so much.

You sparked my curiosity, what are some of the (high level) regulations and requirements for a broker?

About two weeks ago something re-sparked my interest in wholesaling, and eventually rehabbing real estate.

If your brain isn't shooting sparks right now screaming "oooh OOoooh OOOHHH, where's the opportunity, oh i bet I could..." then this is NOT your thing. 

That's like throwing your money into a can of gasoline and hoping it survives a possible spark. 

Currently all my income properties are local but I'm interested in North Dakota (relatives there) and Texas (lived there for 5 years).Would love to chat with anyone with similar backgrounds and especially people in Reno/Sparks and people with experience (good or bad) investing in out of area properties.Cheers,Ken