@Tony Schmucker Now that you know all of those markets work from a Macro perspective you should look to see where you want to live for 2-3 years and what your and your wife's income will be in those markets.

Has anyone else thought about this when looking ahead at the housing market?

Quote from @Michael Ewers: Hey y'all, Wondering what is the best marketing strategy for obtaining off market leads?

Have you looked into the local STR and MTR markets?

Low or no down, seller financing and low or no interest with a balloon payment later is the holy grail (location, building condition, market also matter but it sounds like you have all that).

I'm seeing growth with the STR market where I am at.

Market fundamentals to consider: population growth, average income, median home price and average rent, crime rate.

This is definitely the place to learn and network with folks in your market or the market you're interested. 

Use a buyer's agent that knows the market, contracts, negotiations, etc.If you really want to learn about investing, get a job in property management. 

Focus on market research by exploring neighborhood rent trends and property values while considering your financing strategy (house hacking, BRRRR, or buy and hold).