We live in a small town in Alabama that is fueled by a neighboring military base.

Don't forget that DBPR offers fee waivers for veterans and their spouses http://www.veteransflorida.org/2016/02/22/licensing-fee-waiver-program-for-florida-military-veterans/

There is a nice tax benefit to occupying a house for 2 years out of 5 for civilians and and extended period for military on orders (as both me and my husband were).  

I know it wont be quick or easy but I know my priorities and I've set my goals.A little more background from me; I was young and stupid in the military and developed about 60K in debt that I am currently working to pay off.

Somewhat of a noob, but I've owned a couple SFRs and still own one, but I'm military so we lived in it before.

I buy from both stores and generally get sale and clearance items, then use my military discount.  

We are a military family that has picked up a few rental properties along the way.

Purchase price: $330,000 Cash invested: $58,000 1951 square foot single family home with 2 car garage. 5 minute commute to military base.

Purchase price: $150,000 Cash invested: $5,000 Sale price: $130,000 Single Family Home, 3/2; primary residence purchased when I was in the military.

Lenders are typically more conservative here than in 90% of SE markets because of the combination of a low-income tenant base with minimal, quality jobs and the high military concentration in the sub-market.