I can recommend a couple credit unions in NC that would be good to use, one of which doesn't charge closing costs. 

Thanks Costin for the pointer to the book (and the flow chart).To answer you Q's: I manage my properties myself.A couple of follow-on Q's: a) Can you elaborate on "you guys in CA are different kind of special"?

I am new to bigger pockets and currently owe a 3 unit rental property with the intentions to buy additional rental units in the next couple of years. 

Renovated, it was bought for $150k cheaper a couple of years ago, so I presume it's a flip.Not a great part of Dorchester, but I guess that comes with the relative affordability of it...

Banks have told me that a couple years of income statements when self employed is needed.Also, yes, rental income would count towards income. 

Looking to do low down payment that will affect cashflow because my family and I will live in the house for the first couple of years and want to live in a more desirable location/home.Thoughts?

The landlord probably wants a single person downstairs, if they wanted a couple or whatever they'd of picked a different person.

As far as neighborhood guides, I don't know of one source, but here are a couple of resources that might be helpful.  

As far as Skagit County goes, take a look out east in Sedro Woolley where there are better prices, Mount Vernon has skyrocketed the past couple of years.

My wife’s best friend owns a couple weeks in Kauai and talks about how awesome it is.