Do you know how much it would cost to find land and build a 2-4 family there?

I have family in Raleigh, wife and I can't afford where we live in LA, CA so we're looking for an investment property elsewhere to get into some RE while we keep renting in CA, and Raleigh has that familial connection--who knows, maybe we'll move there but assuming we won't for this decision. 

I hope to learn more about successfully buying and renting single family homes as well as section 8. 

Single family or multi-family?

"I will buy at least one single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex before the end of 2019") and then do it.

It depends on how much capital you have but I recommend either house hacking (3.5% - 5% down) a 2-4 unit property or you'll need 20-25% down for a non-owner occupant purchase which comes with higher rates.I would say house hacking is not an option for me, because I have a family with 2 kids (need good schools). 

Someone smart enough with enough influence to get the family to sell.

Hi All,I am seeking a small group of individuals to meet regularly and share learnings as well as analysis that we dig up in the single family home real estate market.

You need to find contractors with a long history and strong reputation.

If your agent isn't knowedgable they can over or undersell you and that will affect your costs.An umbrealla policy was reccomended to me by my agent (a family member) and in general I think it is a really good idea and usually a  pretty cheap option for risk mitigation.I don't have a specific company to reccomend but hopefully this was helpful.