So location and type can be adjusted for whatever the market is speaking to you.And, from the perspective of developing your real estate career, the knowledge of the power of a 1031 exchange that you have can be a huge marketing advantage for you when seeking listings. 

Houston, with its mix of affordability, career possibilities, and diverse tenants, may be a viable alternative within your budget.

I hope to find a suitable property.

I'm completely fine with this but I'm wondering if it would be difficult to find a brokerage and if its feasible to start and eventually grow into a full-time career. 

Might be something we can help with...I spent a career doing this.You just cannot build a house like you're describing for that $ SF.

Additionally, it's essential to establish relationships with other key team members, including a competent general contractor, insurance agent, and title company.Your agent plays a pivotal role in finding suitable properties and ensuring a smooth exit strategy.

A majority of my career was in Florida and I’ve owned a development and consulting company since 2015. 

Would love to learn about pain points from other property managers.So I have a career background working in software and am currently applying simply builds to common monthly tasks such as sending, receiving, and logging payments for rents.

I have never seen a time in my 25 year career when is was harder to qualify for a regular loan!

His book The Small & Mighty Investor is a great read and possible mindset shift for your investing career.