Your credit score might go back up by it self in several months.

Most members are so excited to help you learn and want to see you get great results.There are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guidesAlerts can be really helpful too: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Just know that if you want to diversify away from traditional funds, a self-directed IRA or Solo 401k can be used to invest into alternative assets such as real estate. 

Although this would generally add self-employment tax for you, it might be a benefit if you can contribute to the Solo 401k and generate significant tax-deferred or tax-free earnings inside the plan. 

I have a 3rd REFI I'll run through lendinghome to see if its really as easy as others have said.Jin, as my 3 deals in 18 mo history said;   1 cash deal with the cash coming from a self directed IRA (actually a solo-401k self directed check book control via advantaira) which is awash with cash from 15 or so rentals inside that vehicle all putting out a net net of $8k/mo.   

Here is a quote I heard from Hal Elrod “Your level of success will rarely exceed your level of personal development because success is something that you attract by the person you become”Here is my list of the top books that have made the greatest impact on me so far, and I would like to recommend:The Miracle Morning by Hal ElrodThe Book on Rental Property Investing by Brandon TurnerThe Book on Managing Rental Properties by Brandon and Heather TurnerRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert KiyosakiThe Compound Effect by Darren HardyBuy Rent Rehab Refinance Repeat by David GreeneMaxout your Life by Ed MylettThe Book on Tax Strategies by Amanda HanThe Five Love Languages by Gary ChapmanThe Ultimate Self-Directed IRA by Jeff AstorEnjoy, learn, and most importantly take action!!

They would/should know the local comps as well as demand and what's worth doing on your end to demand the higher rent you're looking for (If you're self-managing, then run the comps on all the surrounding properties.)In the meantime, I'd also suggest...just try it with 1 or 2 units.  

Self employed or W-2 attorney?

Smaller multifamily properties are definitely going to be more time intensive, especially if you are self managing.Suggestions would be to get concrete on your goals and what exactly you want to do in real estate.

@Ron Brady can I PM you, about self managing properties in NJ?