Any feedback/recommendations would be appreciated. 

I recommend looking for a duplex, triplex, or fourplex.

Quote from @Melanie Thomas: My recommendation is base salary plus incentives surrounding KPI's.

I recommend you read it thoroughly before you proceed. 

My top recommendation is to begin by contacting property management companies in each target area.

Does anyone have any recommendations of first time home buyer grants or down payment assistance programs for New York State?

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant specializing in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.Consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for an accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Any contractor recommendations or lender suggestions for short-term financing?