@Frankie Lotrec if you have an existing loan on the property and you plan to legally convert from a 4 unit to 5 unit , you should check the loan documents because you’d essentially be converting it to a commercial property, since 5+ units is considered commercial and subject to different appraisal approaches and so it would rule out the property being considered for purchasers utilizing residential financing.  

Welcome to BP !

Quote from @Joe Ziolkowski: Welcome to BiggerPockets!

These two demographics are projected to be long term renters which will help keep vacancy rates low for years to come.In recent years, Pittsburgh has become a tech hub in its own right, attempting to create a dynamic job market similar to Silicon Valley.

I'd be happy to make connections over similar goals, and to learn about tax info for DC, great spots to buy, and trends for rentals.

selling notes do not have to get permission from the payor on the note to be legal nor do they have to notify but its common to notify so you know where to send your payment.

I'm in Boise as well and pretty new to the game. 

I want to make sure I screen tenants properly, but I am not sure where to start.

While it seems like there are some better priced deals lately, you may have to be prepared to put down 30-40% down.I'd say due to the lack of homes for sale, you should be open to many if not most cities depending on the deal that comes up. 

I am struggling to find someone to fund a primary residence.