Out of state investment as a future home

[Jeff Mayberry]

My wife and I are planning a cross country move in the next 3 to 5 years. I'm a newbie to REI and am currently renovating my first property. I'm considering finding a single family home that would fit our family down the road, and buying it now to use as a rental until we're ready to relocate. Would y'all mind sharing some advice or explaining any downsides to this plan? Part of my thinking is that low interest rates and inflation make this a good time to buy, and property will hold value better than stocks or a savings account. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.