In my area, decently priced rentals are still hard to find so hard to get rid of existing tenants, especially ones that can’t afford higher rents.

If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.

Retail (retail is very good btw)?

At most, while getting approved for the next loan, underwriters might ask you a series of additional questions as to why you're moving especially if the new unit is relatively the same size, area, value. 

You can also talk to hosts in local Facebook groups in areas you are interested in.2.

I'm new to the area so I don't know any other contractors. 

There are a lot of tricky rules around this, and I believe Freddie either just changed or will be changing very soon to require 1 year of property management/landlord experience in order to count future rental income when buying a new property.2nd question: All debts in which you're obligated, regardless of whether they report on your credit report, are considered in DTI.

I would also look at long-term rentals in the area with a trusted agent or even just browsing Zillow.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

In Chattanooga or surrounding areas of Chatt?