I love all the answers here, and each point from Income verification to precious rental history are all musts.

Of these, real estate is the best growth asset and the precious metals are more of an insurance. 

Since Charlotte has grown out of range for me I looked at Indianapolis and Augusta.

In other markets, like Augusta or Kansas City, diminished inventory and buyer activity may make a sale more strategic.

•Parts of the Southeast (like Birmingham, Augusta, and Columbia SC) – Steady growth, investor-friendly markets, and favorable laws.Since you’re buying cash and focused on spread, you’ve got great flexibility—so it really comes down to how hands-on you want to be and whether you’re staying local or going out of state.I’ve been active in a few of these and can share contacts or thoughts if you’re exploring specific markets.

I personally own 13 doors in Jacksonville and 1 in Augusta GA.

Sleep is precious.

Sometime within 48 hours, I received a message, in chat, stating that Stessa had been trying to reach me about my account since mid-August (a verification issue). 

3) Any specific states you recommend to set up any of these (Not sure where I'll be purchasing property yet, maybe Detroit, maybe Cleavland, maybe Augusta, maybe Des Moines, maybe Saint Cloud, maybe Memphis...)4) I already have a LLC based in Hong Kong (We call them limited companies, but the principle is the same).

For strong cash flow over the next 2–3 years, I'd keep an eye on Indianapolis, Cleveland, Birmingham, Augusta, and Kansas City.