Zillow suggests that I spend $29.99 for a premium listing, promising that renters will see the listing more often because it appears higher in search results.

You can usually find some events by doing a simple google search.

Your MLS should have some kind of key word search.

Property SelectionFocus on Neighborhoods: When searching for properties, prioritize neighborhoods with good schools, amenities, and access to public transportation.

@Theresa Hansen If you do some searching with keywords on here you will find loads of conversations with recommendations. 

Take it slow and steady 

Renting in these areas with a roommate or two will likely be less expensive than PITI in the 'less fun' suburbs.If you do decide buying when you move down here, I'd take a few trips and spend a week or so down here to help narrow the search.

You can also find real estate investing groups through meetup.com, Facebook, or a Google search.

There are quite a few in Cleveland but all of the ones that I know of are all findable through a Google search.

Keep at it I say, but modify your search, not your financial minimums.