After diligent searching there are ZERO duplexes for sale within an hours drive of my work place.

Not much, but something to keep in mind.They are all good options, I would also recommend a place where you are physically the closest to or can get to easily.

@Rebecca GonaBigger Pockets is a great place to find a tax accountant that specializes in short-term rentals. 

If the accredited investor took your money and ran, you probably wouldn't have a leg to stand on in court because you weren't supposed to be In the deal in the first place.  

You mentioned various places to put your money.What is your expected return along with level of difficulty for each venture?

No state income tax, no rent control, and a straightforward eviction process make it one of the more landlord-friendly places to own rentals.

Experience, and 2.) a team in place. 

Given my circumstances, asking any of their family members to co-sign on a mortgage loan feels like a tough ask, as I wouldn’t want to place that kind of pressure on someone.

Quote from @Alex Spivey: I want to start renting as soon as I can so does anyone have adviceYou want to find a place to rent and occupy, or you want to buy an investment that you can rent to others?

After more than 450 deals, everything just seems to fall in place, abundance of leads and lenders throwing money at me.I actually believe this is possible for a lot of people in our industry.