Also, I want to have an additional income stream to my pay. 

Plenty of people are sitting on the sidelines right now.How I see it: When you buy real estate, you are buying a stream of cashflows.

You see this primarily with rivers or streams.

There are so many different options and big guys will advise to spend $5000-$25000 per month on marketing to get a steady stream of leads that can close deals.

And mark these mother-truckers up, they are paying for the convenience... providing you aren't somehow preventing them from buying the stuff themselves beforehand (the way movie theaters do), it's not at all immoral. 

If you're seeking a reliable income stream, check out Cleveland.

You have established a stable income stream and solid understanding of the market.

They are using AI as grunts but still have to check the data.Purchase and ordering, restaurants, self-check out that kind of stuff is more main stream and growing.  

Exploring alternative revenue streams, such as short-term rentals or mixed-use developments, can increase cash flow and diversify income sources.

Here's a very small pros and cons list I've made for the area:Pros:Potential for Appreciation: Rapid growth and development can lead to property value increases.Stable Rental Demand: Proximity to Raleigh and economic opportunities ensure a steady stream of potential renters.Desirable Location: Good schools, amenities, and quality of life attract families and professionals.Cons:Market Competition: Increased demand can lead to higher property prices and competition among buyers.Out-of-State Management: Managing a property remotely can be challenging without a trustworthy local team.Economic Dependence: The area’s growth is closely tied to the economic health of Raleigh and the Research Triangle.