With $15-20K liquid, focus on lower-cost Midwest markets where down payments stretch further. 

While the first farmer struggles to keep up, the second farmer’s fields are growing ten times faster because he let go and focused on the bigger picture."

That's the opportunity.I also recommend engaging an 'investment focused' realtor (not the general residential ones) to guide you through the process and provide you with market intelligence. 

I would recommend that you focus on which area you want to eventually settle down in.

Originally I was going to buy back home in Tampa, Florida but now that we moved abroad and don't see ourselves going back to the US any time soon we have kind of decided to shift focus into the Spanish real estate market. 

If the only MFH options you're finding are in areas you're not comfortable with, it might be worth focusing on a duplex in a better neighborhood.Saving up for a larger property later is a valid approach too, but keep in mind that real estate tends to appreciate over time, and waiting might make it harder to enter the market later.

Because even the top agents have different areas of focuses and expertise.

I’m focusing on Insta and FB.

If you will be financing this purchase, I recommend starting with a prequalification as they will really help you focus on what markets will serve your budget best.

What are you looking to get out of the community and where are you focusing your real estate efforts?