Since you have the ability to do so buy as close to your neighborhood as possible so you can self manage if you ever want to.You are in an incredibly low barrier to entry market so don't get to caught up in the turnkey dynamic.

Hi @Carlos Sierra - It seems like you are definitely mentally ready to start tackling real estate - looking for a mentor is a fantastic next step.Just be careful that you set expectations correctly for yourself and for the mentor - most of the time that I've sought the advice of a mentor, they've directed me to some resource or material.In case you are interested - I wrote about my experience finding mentors in this "Ultimate Guide to Finding Incredible Mentors" - I hope that it helps you with your search!

But, my mortgage payment would be so incredibly high that I am under no illusion than any bank would even consider financing it, especially since I have no prior land lording experience to show on my financial statements. 

If data show approaching that top again for your area you might want to change your plan.

I have day job,  two incredible young kids and wife, small e-commerce business, and a duplex.Life seemed tough this year and I don't want to keep living paycheck to paycheck. 

There are a couple of more "steps" in different approaches that can get you off this runaway freight train, without a real estate license that effectively accomplishes the same goal, and in fact, allows you to make more money avoiding predatory dealing issues!

Seems like a logical approach.  

Perhaps this guide, "The Ultimate Guide to Finding Incredible Mentors" can help you start your search for a mentor that will help you in your real estate journey!

Find what it is you enjoy about real estate and become better than anyone else in your specific market.If you can't find good deals in your immediate area, look at a nearby community or find another state completely.There's an incredible amount of information on this site for FREE and the community is fantastic.  

It appears our strategies align regarding the BRRRR approach.