So we are concentrating on investing in multi properties now.  

Coastal wood floors (was custom wood floors but i mostly do normal refinishing and its actually what i like to do) but i do all kinds of floors (for rental units you cant beat coretec) Almost all of my contacts are concentrated on the OBX and they might venture up into currituck but getting them up more towards the metro areas would be harder. also capable of most interior work like trim, cabinets, painting. dont really venture outside of that much unless im DIY

I agree with Julie, concentrate on your credit. 

So I would try a commercial 'water permeable' sealer:http://www.miracote.com/products/miragard_-_vapor_permeable_coatings_and_sealersIf that fails I would be tempted to drill a number of sump holes (to allow a larger concentrated diffusion of moisture) around the slab perimeter.

I chose the secure path years ago concentrating on my career in the Oil & Gas business while raising my children with intentions on picking it up again later in my career.

I would like to meet and work under an experienced investor who concentrates in rental properties to gain some experience before buying my first rental property. 

These groups concentrate on things like: wholesale, rentals, flips, or areas of town.

One guy I have listened to made me want to buy, fix and flip for higher priced houses because you can concentrate on good contractors and update the home and make more money.  

I'm 8 credit hours away from my undergraduate degree in business (with a concentration in accounting) and I would love to build on my business classes with some hands-on experience---but first, I want to learn and hear the counsel of those who have gone before me, so I can hopefully learn from your mistakes too!

I'm concentrating on buy and hold Section 8 properties for right now.Scott