I plan to live in this unit for at least the next 4-5 years and ideally would like to hold on to it as a rental property when I eventually move out. 

Do you print them off the internet?

It's possible for your "dream home" to also be a good investment and I think that should be the ideal goal. 

There should be at LEAST 2-3 big ones in your area, I'd network, and do some internet searching for local companies and start getting references for those who have used them.  

I came across the BRR method and have been watching videos/ reading about it, it seems very practical and like the ideal way to invest.

My mom is getting older and a two-story home is less than ideal.

If I can get closer to late q1 in 2021 that would be ideal. 

The problem for me is I used to flip houses before HGTV came along and I was a realtor when there wasn't much of an internet, so I am just trying to use technology to my advantage, but I can't tell what's real!

Ideally they will leave on their own accord. 

Repairs may even be higher since the house is going to see a lot more wear and tear than normal.You include water/sewer, but what about electric, gas, internet/cable, lawn care, and snow removal?