I am completely open to suggestions!

I am not suggesting that you cannot diversify however are you looking for cash flow or is buying now, holding for appreciation and or forcing appreciation is your play.Good luck on your journey!

Trust me, I have been there.I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...Goodluck and keep us posted.

The community is also a wonderful place where we help each other win - along with some healthy competition.

I’m wondering if that’s an option for me but I would like to know how you did it.  

Any suggestions on the best ways to make the switch to becoming a full time investor and help grow my family's (and my own) portfolio?

Just wondering if youre still apart of the club and what you think.

One thing I suggest doing as you do your research as well is to find a property on AirBnB that you like. 

Quote from @David Cherkowsky: @Russell Brazil and @Michael BaumThank you both for the suggestions.

My suggestion is to simply file the BOI requirement.