I would study AvantStay and some of their properties in your area or NC generally.

Depending on how you use the property, you may benefit from a cost segregation study and bonus depreciation once the property is in service. 

I want a real estate agent with a hustler's mentality, who knows the neighborhoods, studies appreciation and deal analysis already, understands short-term rentals, and is potentially looking to be a scalable partner with me.

2x House Hacker here in Los Angeles and a case study in the BP book, The House Hacking Strategy.1.

Study the market.

Here's an article with additional FAQs on cost segregation studies that you may find helpful.

A study recently completed showed that most squatters are attracted to two properties: vacant and those listed for rent stating 'for immediate occupancy' or vacant. 

Ever since that conversation I went on a deep dive of research and studying to figure out how to accomplish these wild ambitions of mine.She helped me get my first property when I was 24 years old, which we ended up selling after a few years and using the revenue to purchase another property.

A lot of research and studies have come out around high paying jobs make large impacts. 

Perhaps do a case study with a hypothetical deal you think is typical for what you are looking at and compare it to the alternative investments you might use and their expected returns.