With $50k, you might be able to get started using an FHA loan, which typically requires a lower down payment, as long as you’re planning to occupy the property.

Quote from @Leo Alvarado: Hey guys, I am currently in the process of closing on a two unit duplex that I will be occupying while renting out the other unit.

They can change terms basically at anytime before closing for non-owner occupied - is it good for the reputation - absolutely not - but it does occur.

This would be a second home under your proposed scenario unless you or your wife plan to occupy it permanently as primary home.

I will agree that 4 unit owner occupied is a great way to go if you can manage it.

However, I would avoid neighborhoods where the vast majority of the homes are owner occupied and all of the homes are really well kept - you can do a quick search on county GIS or software and click on the homes to see if they are owned in personal names or LLCs. 

I quickly realized that you do not need to offee tours, especially since the units are occupied as long as your photos are up to date. 

My only hurdle is the fact that I don't know the Real Estate Investing industry that well, so I don't know where or how to find the right documents for my wholesaling transactions.I've began generating pre-foreclosure leads, which I am able to filter out just ones with high equity, owner occupied, and no auction date, yet.

Once occupied not worried.

I'm brand new to real estate investing and currently live overseas in Japan.