How can I leverage my real estate license for multi-family deals?

[Julie Pedraza]

Hi!  I am about to get my real estate license next month, and am getting it solely for my benefit as a real estate investor.  I have 8 units now, but am looking to scale up into 5-50 unit multi-family properties as my next step.  What is the best way to use my license to help me break into multi-families?   Should I look to align with a commercial broker initially?  (even though I'm not planning to work in the capacity of a traditional broker?)  As additional perspective, I'd prefer to invest in or near my local market (Raleigh, NC), where is VERY tough and competitive to find multi-families!

I'd love any advice or perspective you may have.  Thanks!