We own 34 units in Central Maine and want to really step back into the shadows and have the portfolio managed.

While I'm stationed in italy, I'm looking to start investing in Ohio with my step dad being my partner.

Knowing that will help you take the first step

Mike, congrats on making the decision to make the first steps in investing in real estate!

Sounds like your expenses are pretty low - but starting off with a house-hack MFH or a SFH that you can purchase and rent out rooms would be a terrific step forward. 

That's why I will initially be taking just a year off to pursue wholesaling.  

A first step may be to contact builders who are currently working on projects in the area to gauge their interest.

I’m going to take a step back and admit that the government should not regulate this.

This is especially true if the lender initiates contact with you via email/online and is offering a too-good-to-be-true interest rate and asks you to wire them money for an application fee, origination fee, or some other fee.  

I have seen some recommend Southstar and that might be a great option but they don't have a San Antonio branch so making the initial deposit to open the bank requires a little drive 50-60 miles.