I need insight on how to progress

[Tyler J.]

I currently own and live in a single-family home. I want to buy a duplex/triplex next, but everything in my state is out of my affordability (Denver Metro). Talking to my mortgage officer, I must rent out my current property and have a contract signed before being able to approve that as income.
Since I want to stay in my state, how should I proceed?

If any more info is needed I'm more than happy to provide it. Thanks all!