To @Bryant Brislin point as well - you probably don't want to start anything without first confirming that this spot would be feasible for a national chain, or at least a local chain/restaurant that would be interested in the space. 

Im super well versed in the insurance side of things but not the investment property process -- i would love to connect with anyone who needs help with insurance and can help me start out too :) 

More info is needed but, depending on how much you paid for your current home, buying a a new home and renting your current one may not work too well if the rent doesn't generate cash flow or at least cover the mortgage payment. 

I'm in Michigan as well and I think when I took the salespersons test there were 14 math questions.

I will still be looking at leveraging wholesale strategy but also looking to incorporate other approaches as well.

In my market a nice 3/1 might rent for $1350 as well but with an extra bathroom the difference is pretty negligible.

You can hire someone to pull local leads for you and you can outsource the direct mail as well. 

I've successfully done it personally multiple times and I have clients that have done it as well. 

They may come up but understand that rental rates are generally well below market (hence the discount) and these deals are largely off-market if you're able to find them.

I am based out of NYC, but am currently active in the WNC market and I travel down quite frequently so would be interested in attending in-person events as well.