Hi Kris, welcome to the Indiana market 🎉Your plan sounds very realistic, especially with the flexibility to pay cash.

Betting on future price appreciation and equity growth is just that "betting". 

It's hard to beat the flexibility of Podio, although it does require some time & effort to set it up. 

Bet they're making their car payments (walking sucks! 

Your best bet is to go to real estate networking events near those areas and talk to those who have invested in those areas.Best of luck!

Otherwise, rent-by-room is probably your best bet.

That is something that is growing due to the limitations of STR.MTR is something that will help you but you will have to be a bit flexible in the times that you are planning to come in.Management is cheaper than STR, but you have to consider other factors such as close to places where those MTR are in need.

Make sure the units are fully furnished with all the basics, and consider including utilities, Wi-Fi, and flexible leases to make them more appealing.

Sounds like their combined income likely beats your other tenants.Your gut is probably your best bet and you need to go with it. 

That’s the best bet.