Beginner - Expensive Market Issue

[Samuel Thomas Miller]

Hey BP community, 

I am trying to figure out the best approach to purchasing my first rental property. I'm green but I'm reading all the legitimate material I can find on RE investing. 

It would preferably be a duplex or a property that can easily be converted into one. I plan to reside there for a year. However, I live in an area with an inflated/expensive housing market (Charlotte, NC); I currently rent. 

I'm leaning towards the FHA loan route. Where would you start if you were in my position?

Thanks!