I've read quite a bit about the Raleigh Durham area RE market blowing up because of all the corporations that continue plans to move/grow there; the eye catching announcement a while ago being Apple with their 10 year plan of adding a few hundred more employees each year.

Check with your insurance company first - they might have an opinion on what you are planning on doing

This is more a B- class neighborhood.I plan on doing a remodel of the kitchen including new countertops, range and hood, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher; the cabinets are actually in solid shape and hardwood so I would like to keep them, but they definitely need to be stained and will also be adding hardware on them.

It sounds like you got lucky and the process was quick and went according to plan.

After repairs I plan to move out possibly owner financing another home and renting out current home.  

.- Of course self managing will allow you to save and can sometimes be the difference maker of a property cash flowing.

Dave is a pretty smart guy and at his age levering quality RE for the long haul a good plan.

I'll be moving for work on an international relocation in 1 year, and plan to keep my primary residence and rent it out (Assignment will be for 2-3 years).

I fully plan on 1031-ing every property I ever own as a rental, so I'm not concerned regarding depreciation recapture.

Lastly, California is very over priced in most cases so keep in mind buying out of state is not hard and can save you a ton of money.