Goodbye CT, Hello Tennessee... Starting out advice

[James D'Amico]

Hello, I've been viewing the forums for a long time now and have come to a point where I can use some sound advice.  In a couple months, i'll be leaving my 100k/yr job (restaurant management) in CT and relocating to Tennessee (Eastern - Looking at Dandrige area).  I recently sold my home (5 year live-in flip) for a 100k net profit, am single with a dog and really just want to start fresh in an area that I feel i can more closely relate too.

My main question would be, should i look into buying something as an investment property (20-ish percent down) while i still have w2 income up here or would it be more financially responsible to head on down and rent for up to a year while i situate my work/living life, then apply for a owner occupied / FHA loan to save some capital.

I'm not too afraid of finding a job, whether it be with a local contractor, a similar restaurant gig or really anything w2 related, as i have a solid work ethic and am not picky. Ideally i would be looking for a small multi family (2-4 unit) or a SFH that i can put some sweat equity into and hold for the long term.

I will be heading down September 5th-9th to take a small tour of the areas that I believe I'm interested in. I would love to connect with some people (investor friendly realtors/brokers) on the ground that have a good idea of the eastern areas.

I realize what I'm doing probably isn't the most popular path, but it's come at a time in life where its sink or swim and I absolutely love swimming.

Thank you in advance,

James D'Amico