You can check your building department, but sometimes you don’t need a permit for non load bearing walls.

(assuming you're looking to build a portfolio)

Trying to house hack with a low 3.5% down with an FHA loan seems like the move toA) get startedB) begin building credibilityBUT, when taking out an FHA loan you need to reside there.

Personally I’m seeing more of a return on some 5-10 unit multis that are making more sense from an investment standpoint than either SFHs or 1-4 unit buildings.

It is likely worth building a presence in ATL with the local housing authorities and tenants. 

The best sponsors build their reputations and investor base on long-term performance and trust.

Hoping to meet like-minded investors as building with a team is the best way! 

As we were building and growing in the first year or 2, Biggerpockets was by far the largest referral source.

Hi @Chris Shon - I'm also a real estate investor based in CA, but currently building out a portfolio in Atl (currently just closed my first deal and planning on more to come).

Get a local vantage point with local relationships, otherwise you'll be one of the MANY investors that stay for awhile but sell / exit quickly because they didn't build a strong foundation...My two cents!