That's a reliable strategy if you want to continue to work and retire comfortably with a nice sized nestegg.

Is there a chart or calculator that would give me estimates?

Here's a couple charts on home value and rent-to-price ratio trends in Raleigh/Durham and surrounding areas (@V.G Jason to your point on RTP)

That way there you can help speed up and increase your ARV, or rents.Since you have reserves you can either use your funds or a loan to also build an ADU or carriage home if you can find a multifamily home that offers a good size lot.

What size would be too small or too big.

Size and private bathroom can change that variable.

Hey Felicia,If you have a genuine reason (increase in family size, relocation, etc.) for a new primary, then an FHA loan could actually be an option. 

For example, you could print high-quality postcard-size flyers for a direct mail marketing campaign.

I, personally, understand what your data and charts mean.

I've seen some pretty good sized mods that sometimes blow the deal.