Multi-family properties near New Bern, NC or Morehead City, NC

[Michael Carps]

Hello, all! I am active duty military and am going to be stationed in Cherry Point, NC for 3+ years starting in the summer of 2017. 
I am currently looking to purchase a multi-family property in either the New Bern or Morehead City area. I am completely unfamiliar with these areas, but I figure I have 6+ months to become educated on the markets. My plan is to live in one of the units and rent out the other(s). Once I move from the area in ~2021, I plan to rent out all units. 

I have 0 real estate experience. Right now my efforts seem pretty broadly scattered, and I'm struggling in determining where to focus first. Thanks for all the help!!