Zero experience in real estate, but in searching for our first home we came across a two-family home and decided to go for it!  

Most 'standard' buyers aren't going to want to go through the hassle.

Here in the same county, a friend of mine had an large, older ranch home, built in the 50's, on a gorgeous piece of riverfront property (in a very desirable, upscale, neighborhood), that still had the original electrical meter , and the power cable /electrical feed coming into the house right next to the front door!!!

I know this is a complete different path than what I have been striving for these past couple years but as I chase down financial freedom, I know that REI is the way to go.

Some people say it's good to go commercial right from the beginning.

Time is a consideration, as well as the potential to go over limit on capital gains if do the major repairs.

Yes I am planning to go there in a few weeks.

To your bottom right type in your desired zip code and pick which one you're interested in.

What is the best way to go? 

Bud, There are many ways to go about this .