Take a policy loan against the cash value (5-6% current loan rates) in advance of the auction so cash is on-hand, purchase real estate, execute business plan on home, repay policy loan, and repeat. 

- Buy something that you can add value to, refinance in a year or two (or when it makes sense), take the cash out and buy an investment property- Buy new construction, let the builders build the equity for you while you live there, sell in two years (or LTR - MTR typically isn't allowed in new construction neighborhoods)If you are thinking of self-managing, what about Winston Salem/Greensboro area?

Instead of applying for a new mortgage the buyer takes over the sellers existing mortgage loan.

Even with only $1000 in rent I’m still over a 1 to 1 ratio (was not taking out a lot of equity) but under a 1.25 ratio.

I rent nice places to renters all the time and they take good care of the property, pay rent on time, communicate well, etc.

It is truly the best way to build generational wealth so props to you for taking the first steps.

As I hope to use the unit a bit myself, I also want to take into consideration the kind of community I'd like to use (which, conveniently, is also about to be primary parent demographic so I'm hopeful other millennials will be looking for similar things)FWIW, I'm happy to do reno on an individual unit, but was kinda underwhelmed by the community as a whole.I liked Champions Gate, but at my price point, I can't buy much that's appealing there.

If they have a higher income, they are likely living large and accumulating more debt; but as a landlord your main concern is will they pay the bills and take care of your rental.

Takes time for effect3.

There are different strategies to take advantage of, from live flip to acquiring units (many coming online).