@Yair ZarmonOption 2 sounds like the better choice for your situation.

You're in the right place to network, going to some local meetups could prove beneficial to learning about investment opportunities as well.

A summer job in one of the trades would be beneficial to a real estate investing career also as you’d make connections and gain knowledge. 

You can learn through the process and get to a place that will be hugely beneficial for the learning experience for you and build confidence.

Make sure to connect with local lenders and brokers as it's beneficial for achieving your real estate goals.

Quote from @Melanie Thomas: If I was given the two choices, I would continue on and work to recoup sunk costs; however, my motivations are my own.

Long-term objectives play a crucial role; selling might be preferable if you need funds for other investments, while renting could be beneficial for building equity and generating rental income. 

This improvement suggests a growing buyer interest and possibly limited inventory, creating favorable conditions for quick turnovers.Toledo OH - RE Analysis (April 2024) - House Sales (1).pdfDemographics and Economic FactorsPopulation and Economic CharacteristicsPopulation Size: With a smaller population of 5,341, 43620 offers less competition in buying and selling, which is beneficial for flippers targeting niche market needs.Income Levels: The lower median household income ($27,442) suggests a demand for affordable, refurbished homes—ideal for flipping projects aimed at cost-sensitive buyers.Housing and Ownership TrendsRenter-Occupied Properties: A high percentage (68%) of renter-occupied properties indicates a transient population, potentially less targeted for flipping.

Thus moving there and selling that year or the next is not very beneficial overall.my 0.02

Not too sure about your market, but if you are willing to do the work on the place, it could also be beneficial to do a MTR.