If you can find an LOA role that offers base pay, then it's likely a good opportunity; most do not offer base, and if they do, it's usually minimum wage.

Any good resources for learning about hard money loans?

Will this be a good investment time and money wise?

Im glad you're doing good. 

How good of a deal would be needed to make this strategy work? 

Good luck on your journey! 

So population decline either with Celestial deportation or with a more southerly route may not be good long term for housing market?

Cleveland is a good market and if you're in B class areas you'll generally have a better experience despite the lower cash flow. 

All states are good to buy multifamily if the numbers work and it fits your buy box.

We'll likely have to look for alternatives to our primary house since we won't be moving much anymore, but I like the idea of small multis and getting a lending who fully understands the VA is certainly good insight.Thanks,Fritz