Hi Lori,I am a few steps behind you - I have taken the courses, but haven't actually taken the RE exam yet.My instructor and others I have spoken to on this subject suggest Keller and Williams is the agency to start with. 

I am open to all options and looking to learn more before I take any steps. all suggestions and opinions are greatly appreciated!

I think your first step is to call your county and find out whether this is possible, and what legal hoops you would need to jump to make it happen.

Whatever your answer is, it will get you thinking on if and how to proceed into the commercial real estate world.All that being said, my general answer is YES, it is a good strategy.First step should be to start educating yourself about commercial real estate, how its valuation is based on profitability and not strictly on comps, how to leverage the power of partnerships to get large deals done through syndication, how job and population growth start playing a big role when evaluating markets to invest in, etc. 

Very helpful indeed should we pursue this house! 

I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and want to ask if anyone knows of investor friendly bankers in NC.

Your first step is to figure out if you're comfortable committing to the full 2-3M  If you decide you want to live in the more prestigious areas, you'll probably need it. 

Since I only had an agent for the first transaction, she stepped in and coordinated everything for the refinance.

I will pursue that avenue as one outlet.

I see it as a stepping stone.