Hey Marshall,I would consider going the BRRRR method.

This method allows you to take some of the profit tax free and indefinitely defer the rest of tax, using it to purchase larger, nicer property/properties in areas with better cash flow potential.

This is technically a method of buying/selling real estate, which is illegal without a real estate or law license. 

You are in a great spot to re-start your journey, especially with the help of your VA benefits and service to your country.

2.For purchases made on a credit card, is it best to use separate cards, or are there good methods for tracking expenses by property?

Nathan's search method usually works, but I use what Google suggests: '<search item> site:www.biggerpockets.com' (without the single quotes on the Google search bar.) 

All I’m doing is educating and sharing my methods, for free.

Looking forward to seeing your journey unfold.

Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.We are all here to help you learn and grow.

First off, congratulations on your journey into multifamily investing!