@Janett McWilliams, I can say as a general rule that you will have better terms and more money to be accessed if you individually refi each property individually unless you have > 10 properties, usually >20. 

First off you have to identify what kind of investing are you looking to do (single families, apartment complexes, etc.). 

I found ours through our local landlord/apartment association.Dan Dietz

I also question the legitimacy of sites such as neighborhoodscout in their altruism as you are required to purchase a subscription for access to their information.

I'm still sorting out what my final goal is, but I'm leaning towards commercial level apartments.

I invest out of state in apartment buildings, but I highly suggest that you do not invest out of state as a new investor unless you're investing in a syndication or crowd fund  or you're able to dedicate time in the market if things go wrong.

My unit does not have its own meter and has a breaker box with most of the outlets and lights within my unit, but no access to the main breaker.

I guess what I am more so seeking is advice on whether to 1031 exchange for multiple single family homes, a few duplex or triplexes, or just an apartment building with 10+ units.

However, I had a private investor whom has access to plenty of money that she wants to invest to help me get my real estate off the ground. 

In exchange you would partner up on all the wholesales and provide access to your cash buyers list as well as get first look at any deals!