If I'm launching a new account I'll take a gauge at the competition, yes, but not to see how big they are but to see what wording they are using, how are they positioning themselves in the marketplace, are they using relevant ad copy, are they using the keyword in the path URL, are they even using something so basic as ad extensions.

These two combined will probably eliminate any positive cash flow.  

First off I bought the book, Real Estate Note Investing, to learn more about buying performing and non-performing notes and different position strategies.

Yet you still own it and conceivably collecting positive cash flow.  

The borrower has to settle the debt...it's not going away...and there are also late taxes I would bet...which are in first position in front of the mortgage.

I'm eager to learn the business and will do what it takes to be successful.Basically, I'm looking for an entry-level position that will give me the opportunity to learn as well as to add value to someone's company. 

The problem that I am running into is that with $20k down in my market (SLC, Utah) my available properties are slim and I often find that after analyzing properties that I will not be in positive cash flow as owner occupied or even with the anticipated cash flow after moving out with each unit fully rented with anticipated rent raises.

Not planning for these expenses and then they all hit you at once.It’s good to see you are still showing positive cash flow.  

At the end of your 18 months in flight school, you own two small multifamily properties that are giving you positive cashflow. 

You could also upgrade to multi-family as you said, or refinance the current properties out to buy more properties.Definitely a great position to be in