I am thinking since I want to continue my real estate journey if I should buy a duplex and just live in it and rent the other half out as opposed to buying a single family. can a single family home that you live in be considered an investment at all?

Even if one thinks market values will continue to increase over the next few years (I have my doubts), I would not invest in finishing a basement. 

And if the fed rate continues to drop, so will the mortgage rate. 

Currently, I live in Hawaii, house hacking my own property, and am looking to expand into out-of-state long-term rentals.My goals now are to master the art of wholesaling, continue raising private money, and build a strong portfolio of long-term rentals.

Brendan, the VA loan can be a powerful tool in your investing career especially as you continue to PCS around the country.

I'm glad it's working out for you now, and I hope it continues into the future.

Wishing you continued success! 

The only way you will have a reliable income is if a reliable tenant continuously occupies your property (your “customer”).

It's worth noting, however, that in the long term, housing markets with abundant vacant land can significantly increase their inventory if policies and economic conditions favor builders.In markets like Las Vegas, where undeveloped land is limited, and population growth is strong and steady, housing inventory will continue to tighten.

Wait, wait, wait... all of these issues and you continued to use him as a PM???