Our ideal property is single family home, ideally less than 20 years old (willing to budge if major upgrades we're made w/in 5 years, such as HVAC, roof, etc) within a 30 minute commute from uptown Charlotte.

So win win for both of us ! 

SO its a challenge, but when the numbers work its still a win.

My plan right now is to open a checking account and a credit card just for real estate expenses.

After 30 days passed you then have to file an eviction case then you have to win then you have to have them evicted and if after they have been physically removed they come back, now they are a trespasser. 

You have to keep bidding your bid over and over, I never change my bid, especially if I "win."

What about credit cards?

It may take months to get to court and you may not even have enough evidence to win.

Do you have a credit card? 

If your school loans are 8% and you can roll them into a 3% mortgage, you win!