I sold an apartment building and as I lived in the building was always there when my realtor showed it to prospective buyers. 

I'd highly recommend house hacking in your local market since you're in one of the highest cost of living areas in the US, especially if you're renting currently and planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years.It sounds sexy to go out and invest out of state for your first property.

If you plan to buy in your hometown, buy a 2-4 unit, and live in one of the units.

It wasn't fun living an hour and a half from work and play, but absolutely worth it.If one is starting with relatively low living expenses, cash flow can be extremely powerful towards reaching financial freedom.

I buy homes as a primary residence with 5% down and move into them keeping my previous as a rental and the area that I live doesn't have new builds that would work for us, otherwise I would buy a new build. 

What adds complexity to our plan, is that we live in Minnesota.

Thank you for your feedback, I will definitely look into Facebook and I live on YouTube lol everything I watch is on REI and now GC.

I have no reason to stay in Gilbert, other than it's where my family lives currently, so it's nice to be close. 

Determine Your BudgetSet a Realistic Budget: Consider the cost of tuition, living expenses, and your financial situation.Mortgage vs.

Quote from @Ryan Moyer: Quote from @Nick Velez: Hey Anthony,I have a few STR's in Gainesville and have lived here for about 7 years now and know several people with STR's as well.