Hey Gladys, typically, you will need a 20% down payment when buying a single-family investment property. 

However, our current roadblock is that we are a little short on funds for down payment/closing costs for any property.

You basically step into the seller's shoes, handle their monthly payments, and eventually own the place.

Excellent tools covering market research, financial planning, and a variety of investing methods are accessible.Examine several real estate investing categories, including multifamily, commercial, and residential properties.

Is down payment normal 20% down or higher? 

You can use mortgages that doesn't require much more than credit scores and down payment such as DSCR.

We can comfortably provide a down payment over $100k, have a few hundred thousand in assets (i.e. equities, no property), have good credit (both over 750), no credit card debt.

I do have good credit and the money for the down payment.

Should I plan on using cash or is there a way to use equity for a down payment.

In NC you can get $15,000 in down payment assistance through NCHFA as long as you make under $100,000 a year (varies in some areas).