Hey Nick!
Congrats on taking the first step and posting about what you are looking to do. Getting around others that have accomplished what you are looking to do is always important.
I'm actually a real estate agent out of Portsmouth and an investor myself, so you can take everything I have to say with a grain of salt. :)
The seacoast really is expensive - but with every negative - there is always a positive, it also has huge rental demand with steep prices for rents. If you are starting out I most definitely would recommend going the FHA owner occupant route and purchase a two to four unit. This is the best way to get started in real estate with little money down, and start the process of investing without a ton of risk.
I would focus on the areas you would like to be in and see what the market is there. Some of the seacoast has historical high appreciation and steady rental rates while other areas are known for a bit more cashflow and less appreciation over time. If you haven't already connected with a great local lender, I'm Happy to send over a couple of options for you to consider.