@Adam Q Berry-Huff,My two cents would be to focus on the spread you are making between your current debt service and your current cap rate. 

I am focusing on the Metro Detroit area (Westland, Southfield, Livonia, Oak Park, Warren etc.):- Plumbers- Electricians- Carpenters- CPA- Real Estate Attorney- Handyman- Appliance repair person- Property Managers- Home cleaning companies (To clean property when tenants leave)

There are a few long time owners that are focused on selling to the little people instead of selling to the big players in the city. 

I would focus on getting paid and the size of the company and not worry about a small commute. 

The reason I left my job is to put 100% focus into this business, as we are undergoing some changes right now and really need to focus to get where we need to be and reach our goals.

Yea, Middletown Valley Bank seems to be really pushing for large projects right now so they may just be focusing more on the large commercial side.

I am focusing on the Metro Detroit area (Westland, Southfield, Livonia, Oak Park, Warren etc.):- Plumbers- Electricians- Carpenters- CPA- Real Estate Attorney- Handyman- Appliance repair person- Property Managers- Home cleaning companies (To clean property when tenants leave)

You can live comfortably in other towns with a much less expanse on primary residence and focus on investing...That is also what we have been asking ourselves for a while.

After reading dozens of real estate books I have decided to set my focus on acquiring small multifamily properties of 2-4 units and a long term rental strategy.

Best bet: connect with local investors/lenders/brokers to narrow your focus (what type of asset, what sub-market of the metroplex).