I am from out of state so wanted less maintenance in the short term while I build my portfolio and grow to the point where I am comfortable hiring a manager!   

Try to build new in freedom hating states.

I’d recommend continuing to build equity in your home for the next year or two.

If you want to build equity quickly, some level of hands-on involvement is key.

I actually had to do this recently as I also plan on doing renovations to a 3 unit building. 

It's actually cleaner and more straightforward than building in assignment fees here and there. 

The challenge is the that you need to have a plan for the property that will allow you to improve rent collection, lower expenses or build the equity.

We also buy the rentals we lock up and offload some too so I'd suggest doing your marketing in the market where you want to build your portfolio. 

I'm seriously considering trying to find something there, but need to build up my knowledge and contacts of reputable agents and contractors etc.I'm interested in multi-family, STRs, commercial, self storage, and possibly even flips if the right opportunity came up.

Quote from @William Dorrough: I currently either purchase and value add large scale multifamily properties or develop, and build ground up my issue with scaling is we have done this without brining in investors i have a great deal flow with a good track record im really looking to do more i have the capacity but have the need for more capital in one way or another  Scaling without investors can be tough, especially in multifamily.