I would definitely recommend Phoenix/Scottsdale or Tucson, AZ as @Eric Erickson's article points to strength in that market.

The deal highlighted the strength of our partnership with Seth and our commitment to delivering outstanding results through strategic investments.

Are you ok with building a business that needs constant sales and marketing training? 

My train of thought was I wanted the original hardwood to be in decent shape when/if I sell this place.

Now the big banks hire trained robots with zero authority of real knowledge.

Last year we were able to connect an investor of a coastal six plex with our personal credit union and due to strength of borrower and property, they provided a non-member with a 25% down mortgage with a 25 year amortization on a property the seller was requiring 'cash only' due to the presumed challenges of multi family financing. 

Once you’ve identified this, dig deep into the market and figure out its strengths (good for rentals, good for flips, short term rentals, something else?).

Latest venue has been Dave and Busters in Euless Typically on the 4th Monday of the month in the evening about 6pm for networking and 7pm for training.

Tech = possible train-wreck.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.