I am a regular listener to the Bigger Pockets podcasts when I am doing chores around my house and my STR property. 

Start analyzing deals regularly, even if you’re not ready to buy yet—it sharpens your instincts.

Doesn't seem to help get approval for regular conventional though. 

There's a few "regulars" here that you will see often, and new members joining everyday.

We come behind the "cheapest" on a regular basis just to find out the workmanship is terrible and leaves the homeowner with no other option than to have it done again. 

But the B class duplex properties in my area (Springfield MO) are priced so they don't cash flow before they're paid off. in other words I have to cover $300-600/month for about 5 years (on a $250K+ properties).The reason I can pay off in 5 years is I have ability to pay large amounts against principal every month (from my regular job income), but I only have 82K for a down payment.Once it's paid off, the property would produce almost 1000$ net cash flow.Are these good numbers or do I need to do things differently?

Do the inspection, communicate with the tenants, treat the unit and monitor regularly!

Luckily I still have my regular bank account and I don't keep all my funds in baselane or I would have been in a serious bind. 

Aside from San Antonio, investors are also active in places like Fort Worth, Waco, and parts of the Houston suburbs.I work with out of state investors regularly and would be happy to be a resource if you’re ever looking to plug into the South Texas market.

In reality today's products are often cheaply made and will need regular repair, maintenance, and replacement.