During our conversation he asked if I would be interested in being a transitional lender.

I did leave my W2 job to pursue real estate full-time; however, I transitioned to being a 1099 contractor and pursuing ventures that I truly enjoy doing, so maybe a hybrid model?

My plan is to eventually own a few buildings to provide my retirement income, as well keep me personally involved in the real estate business.I have never owned a whole building before, but as I read books, gather knowledge, and talk to my friends that do own buidings, I feel comfortable with making this transition.  

initially to assist with investments but now plans are to transition into real estate sales full time

The market here is pretty good and they are finishing up building the new naval base here that will be starting to transition personnel over the next 2 years.

I might just go with FB lead forms, in fact, as least for the interim while I'm making the transition.

Whenever you are buying a property out of state you should do a few things to ensure it's as smooth as possible.

Located in northern NJ and looking to wholesale contracts and eventually transition into a buy and hold strategy.

I did say the commercial side is a nice transition to running things like a business but the predictability of a 30yr mortgage fixed rate is very comforting long term.

Lastly, look for access to mass transit, major traffic routes etc.