It sounds to me that owning a multifamily home would allow you to reach that goal faster because of the higher cash flow.

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it.We have a 12 page management contract that we've added our real experiences to over the years, with the intent of protecting both us AND the landlord.

Once you make some money - you will prove the concept and once you prove it, you will have a skill that you can charge a lot from and then use it to make more income and then invest in RE ;) 

Some flat-fee or investor-focused brokerages charge a minimal transaction fee, which can save you money if you're not planning to generate regular commissions.Additional Tips:If your primary goal is access to the MLS and flexibility in viewing properties, evaluate the costs of holding a license (e.g., broker fees, MLS dues, continuing education) versus alternatives like working closely with an investor-friendly agent.Consider whether the time required for licensing, post-licensing education, and maintaining your license is worth it for your investment strategy.If you need help finding an investor-friendly brokerage in Georgia or navigating the process, feel free to reach out!

Owner occuppied loans regualted in every state .. must have state license and NMLS registration.NON owner occ loans on 1 to 4 units are regulated same way in about 15 statesin the other states they are unregulated.Keep in mind though investor loans do not follow the same rules as owner occ and rates can change charges can change closing dates can be blown through etc

I like the SFHs because they are easier to manage from the perspective that the tenants are in charge of snow removal and lawn maintenance.

Salt air can deteriorate houses and components faster than markets without salt air.The final piece is finding a market with a quality team or teams that I like and trust.  

Tell him that you are running out of funds and you hadn't planned on the extra 20% he's charging on each bill. 

Hiring someone to do the work will likely cost too much (I would charge a small fortune, it's an incredible amount of work) and doing things as cheaply as possible will bite you in the *** later when you start having issues with your own shoddy work and/or materials.

Adding and making better could sell or rent faster, but it won't get you more than what the market ARV and rent is set at from other similar comps in the area....and your Interior Design background will help, if you you it mostly as an understanding of cost.