The school district is top notch and the homes are of a modest size 1500-1900 sqft single story. 

That school is growing and more students are going to need a home to call their for years to come.

And point taken about sacrificing to pursue what you want-- I've done that before ($$$ in student loans and years in grad school) and am willing to do that now.

I already have a feeling that most of the comments are going to swim around the lines of, "Focus on school first" or "Learn as much as you can while you're young."

Was it during school or while you were working full time?

never had to do that. they don't pay rent.they stated that the North well school districts won't let the kids go to school unless that happens.

The area has good schools and the population is growing. 

I'm trying to fill a nicely refurbished house in a county with very little rental property available and desirable schools.

Currently, I invest in SFs and location is very important for any prospective properties - 1) because it may attract a certain tenant (ie. great school district, or close to a college campus) and may also help me avoid certain tenants that might be troublesome and 2) future resale/appreciation.I am interested in pursuing MFs, and I find some really great cash flowing properties in my city (and out of state), but they are located on the edge of what might be considered less desirable part(s) of town.  

In the forums, I've also seen Larson and Climer recommended as good real estate schools in Florida.