If you can get on people's radar before you move, you might see some deals and at least be on the consciousness of people already working in that market.

Maybe you'll need to trim lifestyle a bit, maybe not.

There's a lot of young kids out there that could use a story of someone who found their way out of the only lifestyle that they've ever known.

I think duplexes are somewhat isolated, almost like SFR, because they provide a different lifestyle.

The high-quality labor force attracts new business, which upends the traditional relationship between business and population growth.Markets like Austin and Dallas in Texas, Atlanta, and Charlotte and Raleigh in North Carolina are as much lifestyle destinations as employment centers.

And in a catastrophic downturn you can lose a property or two and not hurt your retirement life style. 

It's a tough business and lifestyle that does not fit many investors well.

Live a frugal life style and save every penny you can.

A personal home is a life style choice not a investment.Due to the fact that a personal home is more expensive to own and maintain renting while saving to invest is a smarter option for those wishing to concentrate on investing.

Since you are new to REI, the obvious start is with education but I would suggest making some 5 year, 1 year, 6/3/1 month goals with the end in mind (retirement and lifestyle).