If you are going to go with credit union style banks, I usually prefer to stay local, because they will often be easier to work with. 

As for SH vs MF, my personal preference is 2-4 units. 

I prefer to work with a local RE attorney with landlord tenant experience for as long as your tenant has been in place. 

@Meghan RahillFHA tends to have a few more hoops to jump through vs conventional and I can understand why a seller would prefer conventional loans vs FHA ones.

You're gonna want to start building a relationship with an agent(s) preferably ones who are investors themselves.

I know I already need to check the box on the contract that says "Agent", but past that I would prefer not to be discussing the Agent affiliation any more than is absolutely necessary with a lead.

If ANY personal items of the resident are left behind,  either a signed declaration from former resident that they have moved out and release any claim all remaining items - enumerate any large or potentially valuable items - (get it notarized or ensure signed with witnesses present)  or preferably,  ensure property is completely empty, interior and exterior,  of resident belongings.    

I prefer to buy with them already installed however if not I will install one. 

I might catch some flack for this, but I think a good screening question is “what part of East Durham would you invest in” (or Southeast Raleigh if you prefer that market).

@Jacob Garcia no needs to get an agent involved, the wholesaler probably has a preferred title company (the one mentioned on the original PA with the seller), get in contact with them, and review the closing docs.