I also need some other “soft” costs (origination fees, etc.) taken care of to get the deals going for each deal. 

Here are some tips to get you started:Run the Numbers: BiggerPockets' rental property calculator is your friend!

We are carefully looking into starting rental property investing.

The REPS-9 election prohibits grouping short-term and long-term rentals, emphasizing the need for careful strategic planning.

Im up for advice, tips, or reasons to let this pipe dream die before i take it any further. thanks!

Although, if something were to come up where you couldn't live there for some reason (ie. new job or in your case, taking care of family members) you may be able to get around it.

Any tips or advice for a newbie would be greatly appreciated!

With careful planning, due diligence, and a willingness to think outside the box, investors can unlock the full potential of Charlotte's real estate market and achieve financial success.Which of these strategies would you be open to try? 

Take care to not commingle funds.The best advice is for you to spend money 💰 with an attorney in your state that is focused on asset protection.

A few words of caution: - Be careful not to let the "tax tail" wag the dog.