Having to go the stated income loan route is proving to be difficult. 

i would like to do that but the only bad thing about that is I live in North Carolina (the aka  retirement state) and since I'm in this for the long haul the bad thing about the duplex is most of all duplexes in my local area are in bad parts of town for 1 and 2 our market turnover for duplex tenants are high 2 and lastly for me starting out getting a duplex would mean I have to manage more then one tenant at a time which could be a little difficult for me being a newbie and all.

First mistake, provided a free incentive to please and secure your tenant, you should always stick to the rules, you must charge accordingly, always enforce pro-rated terms, if/as stated in your contract ease terms.I always like to say that an exception, quickly extends into the rule (As a general rule of thing, we absolutely do not bend on any rule and enforce every element (within reason))Another view is that if you are the individual, the owner, the landlord, the point of communication, it is more difficult to distance yourself from the emotional element, sometimes the emotional attachment to the asset, will shut down your business side of thinking for a brief weak moment, you must restrain from that.

I am assuming it is through the use of private capital or pooled funds but even solo investors are posting about buying 1 house a month and I not only see how that is difficult from a cash outlay perspective, but how does one get that many properties on a mortgage, by having a portfolio loan setup with a local CU?

Hi Ann, I don't know what is going on at your company, all I know is I am having a difficult time reaching anyone in your office.

As an investor, you have the additional expense of flood insurance on top of regular operating expenses.I wouldn't buy a screaming deal in a flood plain or flood prone area - it's not worth the headaches, worry, and exit strategy is much more difficult.

Mobiles are historically difficult and IMO, high expense. 

You are in a great situation being ambitious, young, single, no kids, and flexible ... yes, starting out is very difficult as it can take years before you start to see the fruits of your hard work, especially before you lock down your first investments; just have to keep at it and have faith that your hard work will pay off in the long haul, so long as you keep at it.You mentioned sales ...

Clean floors tile or laminate is always best but if you have carpet make sure there are no stains and smells fresh.Landscaping and curb appeal raise rent to include servicesIt is difficult to rent a dated or unkept property when your competition is a much better choice.When I take on a new property to manage I front the cost for the owner taking it out of the first months rent so the owner is not out upfront money, as well the owner knows I will make it a priority to rent it quick as now I have cost to recoup.

You will find it difficult to obtain financing and won't get into a primary residence with little money down if you go the route of an LLC.