That being said, interest rates have been reasonable during the past 15 years, but I fear inflation is going to wreak havoc on rates in the near future. 

(Though in retrospect I'm not sure why I panicked because we had plenty of cash from the sale and savings; I think it was the general fear of unknown and unplanned).I agree with what everyone else has already stated:  continue to learn and to network locally. 

I would hold this investment for a couple of years regardless but my fears are that I will not be able to find cooperative tenants and that rent prices will come down too much for me to support the mortgage and whatever expenses I pay.

I had to let go of any fear that I had.

Also to be frank, I do have some fear around jumping into a market where I don’t live.  

Everyone is recommending manage it myself, but I am in fear that with my job and upcoming kid will cause me to make mistakes with hiring bad capenters, repair people, etc.

I know I can get approved for the same amount as I would've been with a traditional mortgage but I'm afraid that because its uncommon it will be "feared" by sellers. 

I know I can get approved for the same amount as I would've been with a traditional mortgage but I'm afraid that because its uncommon it will be "feared" by sellers.Lastly, how do I go about finding an agent familiar with this type of mortgage?

I would not let the fear of an uncertain future mess the reality of today. 

Joe - I have struggled with random picky people feeling the need to leave 4 stars even though they gave great reviews in Nags Head.