How hard would it be to put in a proper sized window?

I think climate change is actually less of a factor than employment availability, cost of living and where people have personal ties. 

Size, type, floors, etc?

The market area for my local MLS is maybe 350k people but until the last few years there were not all that many rental listings and even now I don't think the sample size is large or broad enough to be useful for that.

As the deal size gets larger, this should get lower. 

With three new kids, the last thing you have time for is managing a decent sized renovation.

New London, CT is by no means a huge city and I am very hesitant to even consider buying real estate around here but the one thing that really keeps me coming back to it is my employer.

It's not a one-size-fits-all answer, but hopefully this gives you some food for thought.Whatever path you choose, I'm here rooting for your success.Jasper & PatTurning investment visions into REALITY in Phoenix, AZ - Ranked #1 for residential real estate growth and opportunity by PwC

If the employment is in Columbus and the rental property in Cleveland, the income is apportioned.

Although it seems like the OP is really not looking to get much money 3 years of cash payments on that size loan is what 30k  seems hardly worth the effort.