I actually totally agree with JM's posts and the outlook here.

I looked into the Pocatello market about 5 years ago but the employment outlook wasn't great due to Heinz so I purchased in Idaho Falls instead. 

Especially when you are hiring everything out. Look

I would not rule out looking for a duplex/triplex/fourplex also since you do not plan on living in the home more than a few years.

I think some "investors" have the outlook that everything will sell for a profit.  

What is the economic outlook in Eau Claire?  

I have only met two appraisers in my area who are active investors and I personally believe being an appraiser verse real estate agent gives similar, but different outlook on deals/investing. 

we actually started out looking for a lease option, but could not find a single one!!!

I too started out looking for a mentor only to realize the direction provided seems to be missing specific objectives.

His contact at the bank said the long term outlook for Brits buying Spanish property is likely to remain similar, however, short-term, the mortgage LTV available to British buyers could see a reduction of as much as 50 percent for new-builds or resales, but rates are likely to remain high for bank repossessions, which he believes are likely to stay at around the 100 percent mark.With European Central Bank interest rates at historic lows, European banks are continuing to offer very cheap mortgages, including to non-resident buyers.