On the other hand, I suppose I could access the MLS through my smart phone.

HML are hard - too hard for me -  When you get a great deal and you really want to hold the property - maybe a short term HML is the way to go  until you can get some "soft money".If you intend to flip the property - do not buy it..... instead  CONTROL IT with a skinny contract of sale - with all the necessary clauses in it that will benefit you and the seller.Make sure you have lots of time - use "banking days", study periods and delayed settlement terms.I think it is unproductive to use a HML for short term flips -Once you get a property under contract - start immediately to find your end user - your assignee the smart investors who can understand a bargain when one is presented. 

Talk to a smart realtor who knows the area, and do your homework.

We are retaining smart/talented people that would have left for the Bay Area or LA ten years ago. 

I truly believe if you can find the right partner(s) and you're somewhat educated as far as book smarts go and you've got that money available you'll be all set to do your first deal and get that hands-on knowledge..Best of luck! 

Having multiple exit strategies is always smart. 

Talk is cheap - look at his credentials before investing in a mentor.Be smart about what you do and who you work with - you can look at listed real estate but your best deal is going to come from dealing directly with sellers.Also remember creative financing techniques - nothing down deals - Control and Roll System - Delayed Settlements - Hybrid offers - and don't forget owner assisted financing and make sure you always ask for a principal mortgage.Have fun - make full disclosures and make sure you understand the laws related to mortgage foreclosures - fail to do this and you may have a paid vacation to the Gray Bar Motel (a nice little room with one small window and the food is free, but the space is restricted).Remember your goal should be CASH FLOW or EQUITY - forget the emotional appeal - it is all about numbers - understand them and you'll do well in Charm City.Charles Parrish

There are some extremely smart investors I have worked with that successfully pulled off that strategy and are set up to make sizable gains through improvements.

House hacking and moving every two years is smart financially, but could be hard on children.  

It may be a smart move to separate the jobs, keep the bank on deck for what they are good at and use commercial lending institutions that focus only on CRE loans.