This is often easier in lower tier markets where the appraisals are not indicative of how the property would sell in an arms length transaction.The other risk you run is over extension.

We have retirement accounts, a small private stock market account, and an emergency fund. 

I also want you to get into the mindset of direct calling opposed to waiting to people to respond to your campaign.  

I'm not saying you need to move to small town America but I wanted to give you a comparison.The only way I can see you staying in NYC and looking to invest in real estate is to find a way to make more money.

Basically I’m just trying to figure out which direction to go in.

My wife and I own a couple duplexes in Florida, however with insurance costs on the rise, we're looking at Wisconsin, which is where my wife is from originally, and we're looking at small multifamily in Sheyboygan. 

I would offer it on a land contract to someone wanting to live there for around 1500 and small down payment or sub2 with a large down payment and monthly that would cover PITI.

Ideally, I would like to use the BRRRR strategy with a small multifamily to start. 

Cash from a self directed IRA How did you add value to the deal?

Networking with local real estate meetups in Raleigh or surrounding areas could also help you find leads directly from other investors.