Getting started

Hello all, I am looking to get started in this investment area and have a few questions.

I am 34, living in the houston area and have good credit and around 20000 - 25000 in available cash. I also have parents with available investment dollars that would be willing to partner with me in this. The question is…where do i start. I can find things out there in the 100000 range but i dont know if that is too small to start with or what?

So basically the question is…if you were me where would you begin? What would you do?

What size should i look for?

Are there particular things i should avoid as far as whats in the park (septic, water issues, etc)?

I know it is a big question but I know this is a great place to invest and at my age the time is now?