Get a steady job in a career that aligns with your passions and goals.

Always remember application and theory do not always align perfectly, so prepare yourself to encounter some trials and tribulations along the way, but through a low of wisdom on this site, you should be ablel to avoid many if they very expensive pitfalls.

Or does it simply mean the setbacks and heights must align?

We then present that to our investor clients as potentially aligning properties to match their portfolio needs.

Perhaps we should set a goal to revisit our goals in five years to make sure we're still aligned.5.

For example  a Class A tenant to me would include tenants who have stable/adequate finances  and generally good financial management. ( This often but not always aligns with skilled/professional employment.)

Of #1-3 I prefer #1&2 over #3 as I feel the provider has more "skin in the game" and their compensation is better aligned to yours as the passive investor.

Were I ready to step into the fray next year does anyone have any thoughts on where, who, when and what to align myself with as a greenhorn CF investor?

Whether those are rough areas I am unaware of.If you do go the route of investing out-of-state finding a reputable operator is crucial and also choosing the right market aligned with your investment goals.Hope that helps

Both of your target cities are very hot fix and flip areas.My personal investment strategy is in alignment with @Derek Martin.