I'm a CPA and full time real estate investor, have flipped hundreds of properties and own a rental portfolio (both short term and long term).

Lastly, renting by the room is a nice mix of increased cash flow and long term appreciation.

Home Paid in Full and will become a long-term rental.

From an appreciation perspective, over the long-term I don't think one will necessarily outperform the other by a significant margin.

Having a separate account to hold security deposits is a good idea.Having another account for business operations is also a good idea.There is zero risk in opening a bank account and it doesn't take that long so you can do it now or do it later.Good luck

Unless you are local to the market, I would consider elsewhere.I think Charlotte long term is a great market, financial hub, good airport, population growth.I think if you commit to any of these markets, you will have successGino 

I am in the midst of rehabbing my first deal (a rented triplex with long term tenants that was owned by a major slumlord). 

But they broke contract with me by attempting to get my credit lines increased after I specifically declined it on the contract signed  How long ago was that?

or as long as you have any percentage to be included for the "Funding Fee" to carry?

The bad experiences are painful but pretty much all real estate investors that make it over the long haul go through them all so good to knock them out early!