Look for local PMLs who specialize in rural areas or residential properties.Credit Unions:Some credit unions offer flexible terms on small loans, especially if you have a solid relationship with them.

Dallas-Fort Worth offers growth and opportunity, but smaller markets like Sioux Falls or Des Moines provide stability.

It had multiple offers the day it was listed (like everywhere) but now the financing of the buyer is falling through. 

I recommend having a contractor walk through the property before submitting your offer, or you could make your offer contingent on a contractor walkthrough.

Augusta indeed offers great potential with a strong rental market driven by factors such as population growth and a stable job market.

A mid-term rental could be an great option during the 6-7 months you're away since it appeals to traveling professionals, remote workers, or individuals relocating and offers stable income without the constant turnover of short-term rentals.

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – so, they often select the first PMC they call or that calls them back!

I've found that CPAs that focus on a niche area such as real estate rather than offering general services to everyone are typically much more knowledgeable about real estate tax incentives.

Quote from @Kathy Grossart: Can a non-accredited investor in an already established SDIRA, within a 506(b) multi-family syndication, do a 1031 exchange to another syndicated property (with same operators), if the new 506(c) offering required investors to be accredited, and the investor is not? 

With the capital and experience to offer I've seen this work well as a joint venture.