Once you understand these basic things (a several more) you will be in an educated position to put in credible offers that can turn into successful ventures. 

Others basically down right prohibiting investors. 

I could send you a handful of articles that would give you the basics and you'd be fine.I have 14-doors in Detroit and 3 of them I've placed S8 tenants in.

There are also multiple universities that drive rental demand.

Basically you can afford -3500/month which equates to ~$500k if no rental income.  

Basically would he then say he has zero shares?  

"Smart money" was responsible for the 10K bitcoin current comeback basically.

This is driving up prices for everything.

Like @Nicholas L. said, maybe look within a reasonable driving distance from where you live, is there any city or state where you have family or friends that live there where you could travel to frequently and they could keep on the property for you or somewhere you visit a lot.  

@Joshua Morency I started out by househacking a 3 bedroom rental allowing me to basically live rent free for a few years while I saved up enough money to buy a condo.