It was either this or go into health and wellness and become a personal trainer/coach/nutritionist as that fits my lifestyle and routine.  

I think there will be a stronger need for travel nurses who want that lifestyle.

Their lifestyle could be attracting pests or otherwise damaging the rental.

Ultimately everyone's FI number is based on where income intersects life style.

Moved out here a year ago and really dont want to give up my lifestyle here but know it'll be way easier back in Ohio.

Equity/partnerships are messy: Goals, personalities, egos, lifestyle changes can all make partnerships go astray.Your grandfather could have been wealthier, perhaps much wealthier with partnerships, but I would almost guarantee he had an amazing quality of life. 

I think you are going to get a wide range of opinions here because ultimately where and how you choose to live/invest can be a very personal decision and vary based on personal values, desired lifestyle, investment strategy, etc.

Those big blue city refugees bid war fighting each other for houses are going for that perfect picket fence suburban lifestyle, flush with the cash they got selling their big blue city townhome or condo. 

Currently shooting for around the 500k mark as that’s affordable and lands me close to downtown for my preferred lifestyle, if it’s my own condo that I buy first.What would you recommend, buy your own home first or buy a rental (an investment property?)

Your next door will probably need more of a cash savings built up but it should be within reach in about a year depending on your lifestyle.