Embarking on your real estate investment journey is a commendable step and I'm amazed by your decision to take control of your financial future. 

I’ve been working on a budget, financial plan, profit & loss etc.. in doing so I’ve been “auditing” all of our bank accounts, line by line.

I would be using a DSCR loan since I don’t have 2 years of work history.Sole, when you are considering a home purchase in North Carolina with a budget of $35k I would say it is essential to evaluate not just the amount, but also your overall financial health.

Granted, I don't know how well they perform financially, but she, too, makes sure the properties are well staged with professional photography, and instagram vignettes throughout her property.  

Custodians do exactly the same thing but with the added regulatory and financial scrutiny.

Charlotte's burgeoning financial and tech industries create a dynamic rental market, while Durham benefits from its proximity to top universities and research facilities, part of the Research Triangle.

That's the DD of the individual to decide, what fit's for YOU, in your unique situation, the "worth-it" question.     

Alternatively, the idea of finding high network individuals to invest as equity partners also is perplexing.

My goal is to be financially free and ultimately leave my W2 through scaling rental properties to manage/invest full time.

STR investors might shoot for 15%+. don't worry about what's high enough for others. look at your personal financial picture & say "ok, if i have to put $____ down, and my personal cost of living which has been $___ is eliminated, plus i'm cashflowing $____ every month, is it worth it to me to make that initial investment?"