My next step is to get out to the local Investors meeting.

I think I've figured out my plan of action in these iterative steps for purchasing another single family home. 

A common practice is to defer maintenance on a property to hold down entry costs for the buyer.  

A bit nervous and hoping this is the right move...but can’t be content with prior success as without stepping out of our comfort zone there can be no growth.

Hi Lori,I am a few steps behind you - I have taken the courses, but haven't actually taken the RE exam yet.My instructor and others I have spoken to on this subject suggest Keller and Williams is the agency to start with. 

I am open to all options and looking to learn more before I take any steps. all suggestions and opinions are greatly appreciated!

I think your first step is to call your county and find out whether this is possible, and what legal hoops you would need to jump to make it happen.

Whatever your answer is, it will get you thinking on if and how to proceed into the commercial real estate world.All that being said, my general answer is YES, it is a good strategy.First step should be to start educating yourself about commercial real estate, how its valuation is based on profitability and not strictly on comps, how to leverage the power of partnerships to get large deals done through syndication, how job and population growth start playing a big role when evaluating markets to invest in, etc. 

I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and want to ask if anyone knows of investor friendly bankers in NC.

Your first step is to figure out if you're comfortable committing to the full 2-3M  If you decide you want to live in the more prestigious areas, you'll probably need it.