Plenty of free contracts online that are great for all states but you may have to sign up for their newsletter etc.

ACTUALLY (insert mansplaining guy here) Plenty of title companies provide pre-foreclosure data but you are gonna have to call a ton of companies and learn how to ask.

And if the masses don't, then I'd bet on something breaker sooner than later which would then make rates change earlier.

I’d be happy to discuss in more detail if you like.

Value-Add Opportunities:Charlotte's diverse neighborhoods offer plenty of value-add opportunities for investors looking to maximize cash flow.

I'd rather do it myself but worry the consequences of messing up as I'm still new.

The other brokerage, Coldwell you mentioned, has good training, lower splits, and much lower fees (and they don't charge you per page on the copier) You do NOT need to affiliate with a broker until you are ready to get licensed, so you have plenty of time.

If you're thinking 1-3 steps ahead to optimize cash flow, then sure stick to CDs and govt debt.I'd opt for a very quality location, then private/public debt, and then HYSA, and last and definitely least low value areas with high intrinsic properties like Detroit, Cleveland, etc. if I'm "investing" in those last areas, I'd rather opt for HYSA/Debt before buying those. 

There are two companies and split about 60/40 across them.1) My dad has been using his HELOC but it's a bit of a mess on accounting, so I'd like to get away from that. 

I have plenty of experienced investors that work in the NC in my contact list.