It seems you and your husband have the ability to make a property more desirable and I would try to stay local for the same reasons you listed. 

👋I’m doing a deep dive into the property management industry and trying to stay on top of the latest trends across the nation.  

Start small, be patient, and stay connected with local meetups and online investor communities for support. 

I would consider staying with your parents and investing in another market that stretches your dollar and covers the cost of a professional property manager.

Not to mention the economic development steps the town is taking in ensuring the growth of town (roads, schools, zoning) stays on par with the future expected population growth and new jobs that are going to be a result of the new factories opening.  

I think it would be better just to stay on good terms and let him know you will contact him when you are ready to sell.

We have told my ex-wife that we are willing to let her stay in the house for a time but she needs to pay rent.

If you are going to get your license in Virginia I would plan to stay there for a decent bit(5+ years).

You can then "gift" them the alcohol for staying with you.

., the actual management of the property & tenant play a large roll in how long tenants stay in their home.