It will depend on the amount of your downpayment/LTV at funding. 

Depending on your market you may need to buy in our out of your state to hit your goals.If you plan on getting financing you need to understand what programs offer the best options for you and your current employment or income position. 

It will depend on the bank and their threshold / programs they are participating in. 

Collecting rents is an art and a science.What you should depends on where they are with their late rents.

It will depend on your preferences and how well you think you will tolerate having a room mate as you approach a new life with your partner.

Yes, generally speaking, depending on tenant class, it's best not to get too friendly with your tenants.

It depends on who you're hiring but that seems fairly standard.  

Appreciation can be found in many submarkets throughout both Charlotte and RDU, but it really depends on what you're looking for. 

Experience depends on who you deal with - the cleaner the loan file and more organized your paperwork the smoother the process with any private lender.

Depending on how long it takes you to save up the amount, you might want to also allow for inflation on that amount for your continued savings.[2]   Read Rich Dad poor dad.[3]   Think about getting a second job - possibly a temporary job - save a 100% of the money.Just my 2 cents.