on the one hand, if you're happy with it, and you believe in this market, and this is what you wanted, great. the fact that you're asking the question shows that you're being thoughtful about it.with that said, it sounds like you're into the deal for almost $90K out of pocket, and so if you asked me if i would put $90K of my hard earned cash into a property to get $175 month, the answer is no. 

You need income to qualify for loans, you can learn how to manage rentals well (something most landlords never do), you will figure out which communities/properties make the best investments, can earn an above-average paycheck, and may even find some investment properties before they hit the market.

I did market analysis to find the right rental rate.

Personally, I invest in properties in C-Class neighborhoods in my market (East Linden and Southern Hilltop), and they’ve been cash-flowing well so far.

You should be able to use departing residence income from the market rent when qualifying for a new primary purchase.

Or find a deal first then market it to buyers, then offer on the house and create an agreement with the seller & buyer?

In a highly competitive tourist market like New Orleans, I update my photos weekly. 

I'm curious to dive deeper into the Santa Fe market and would love to learn from those with local experience.

Depending on your long term goals I wholesale and use the assignments fees to buy free and clear properties and I use creative marketing to buy and keep in my portfolio. 

I'd be interested in any insight on the Sacramento market, esp. from investors in multifamily.