I’m making a few assumptions: 1) at least some buyers and sellers will accept much less agent handholding than commonly assumed, 2) the primary value that agents add is a) pricing guidance and b) advising clients on offers and counter-offers, and 3) there’s no truly compelling reason why North America has the highest average commissions in the rich world.

Cash flow is actually not it's primary strength.

I'm confused, are you wanting to buy an investment property in another state that you will rent out, or are you wanting a property that will be your primary residence?

However, my future plans with REI involve transitioning my primary income from nursing to REI.

I bought from a primary homeowner in Indianapolis metro area who took really good care of this home (I did live in this house and rented it out when I moved back to California) and from a flipper in Indy more recently.As far as primary homeowners, they can range from taking really good care of the house to someone who has a lot of deferred maintenance - I renovated a local property that had a lot of issues.  

A little more about the situation: I bought a duplex last year as a first investment property / primary residence.

I feel so fortunate to have found BiggerPockets, as it’s been a goldmine of information and resources.Currently, I’m leaning towards the BRRRR strategy as my primary niche.

We are based in Alaska and have 2 primary airlines: Delta and Alaska.

Currently I have a regular primary homeowner insurance policy on the house as it was our primary home for the past year.

I'm also assuming that you are looking to use these homes as a primary residence.