I don't have an exact preference of area, just looking for the best opportunities & deals available in the metro area ultimately.

There are lots of different ways to go and I find that most investors I work with have a preference that excites them and also balances their comfort level. 

It's a crazy market, I'd prefer to wait until the market gets better to buy, but I really want to get out of my expensive apartment and start working on the real estate investment plan to financial freedom :-).  

I do not recommend the TV GURUs, I recommend you find someone you can touch and interact with for your first 1 year of training.I am also interested in what MLM are you in??

Preferably combined with a rental.

I'm very new to the area so I don't know the preferred cash on cash return when it comes to rental properties in this area.

I would like to learn about analyzing, purchasing and managing larger Multi Families and or Apartment complexes.Can anyone recommend any self learning books or courses...preferable audio format....that I can study to get my feet wet.Thanks in advance

I prefer class B properties which usually require clean deals. 

Now if their selling, they would prefer I be the recipient.

Seriously, I learned as much here in one year of reading and interacting as I did in 5 years of doing it myself (with my wife, that is).Again welcome, and check out the REX (Real Estate Exchange) meetings on "Meet up", I believe there's one coming up next week.Good Luck!