Glad to have you as a part of this awesome community, Nathan! 

I am in the NOVA/DC Area and am wanting to start/build a rental portfolio.

Dominic is a history teacher in Chicago who clocks in $45k/mo from a real estate portfolio he started building 27 years ago.

Lots of things done 100 years ago are "up to code" because 100 years ago when they were built that was the building standard and that is the standard they need to meet UNLESS you touch it.

About / Members – Neighborhood Building Owner's Alliance (nboachicago.com)Another great spot to check out would be the Straight Up Chicago Investor's Podcast website which keeps an up-to-date list of meetups as well. 

I agree with building upon a successful strategy, rather than stepping too far out of your comfort zone early on.

Is there major tech jobs and limited building starts.

My question is.. does anyone have experience getting a conventional primary loan to build a 4plex and what if any experience can you share regarding the building of one.

Thereafter the plan would be to get teamed up with a CPA and Advisor team locally to build out the frame work in which I can maximize deductions.  

First thing you want to do is start building your network of people who can assist you in getting deals done and then find a good mentor.