Former Lifestyles trainer Steve Davis has started this and has some Dallas trainings and meetings periodically.

Once you know the strategy you want to pursue - long term rentals, STRs, wholesaling, retail, self storage, etc - you can see if that market is conducive to that type of opportunity and your lifestyle...remember, you're also going to have a new, full-time job.

Since you'll need to live there for at least a year you need to consider whether or not it's in a location that's going to be suitable to your lifestyle.

I think the question you should be asking though is how much income you need and work backwards to get the number of houses you need to provide the lifestyle you are looking for.  

When doing a 1031 exchange what matters most is that you are improving your net worth and lifestyle.

It's definitely a different lifestyle but so much more flexible and fun. 

Thanks a bunch and I'd really appreciate any advice/tidbits.The down payment percentage really depends on your lifestyle/wants.

Yes, taking $5000 a month away would hurt lifestyle a bit. 

Wanting to maintain a minimalist lifestyle with a smaller space in order to maximize our savings to achieve financial independence.

I'd encourage you to check out Lifestyles Unlimited.