I don't think my 2 questions will risk your post - we need to have broader view of the deal to comment with feedback. 

From a pure investment lending perspective if the work environment is not really a burden would you recommend staying with a w2 as long as possible just to allow for a broader borrowing platform?

I have a contract with Caltrans (California Transport, government agency) for a board up and lawn maintenance, I already know those, but I am looking for a more broader scope, something like houses need a foundation work, or rehab to a "habitable" condition before the bank sells it to investors, something like that.

But I feel I am lacking a broader plan.

You know....those brokers who actually answer the phone, have connections to off-market deals, etc, etc.Personally I'm looking for a property in NC, SC, TN, or ID, but my question is broader than my current scenario. 

As you go south down GA400 (roswell & sandy springs) and east of GA400 (headed towards johns creek & gwinnett) of Milton it starts to get more populated and you enter into a broader array of housing prices & amenities.

Rich Dad Poor Dad and the subsequent advisor books, the BiggerPockets podcasts and others make for great listening at the gym, in the car or just when i am around the house cleaning.I am also a business reporter, which I hope has given me at least some background in some of the broader topics.

I apologize for not specifying but I am not looking for a book that focuses solely on one type, but rather a book that gives a broader perspective of all building and site types.

They're based on experience in DFW, so others may have a broader scope of knowledge to play with...I agree with @Ben Leybovich re economic loss... sort of.  

I am not qualified to understand the broader implications, but I would say it is evidence that rents have an upper limit and assuming you can buy and increase rents at a 5-7% rate every year is not a valid strategy.