However, I have no idea how to choose from the remaining cities, it seems there are a lot of potential options:- Midwest - Michigan (ie: Grand Rapids) seems to have options, also seeing Columbus Ohio and Indianapolis coming up- Reno - I've seen mentioned several times on here- Pittsburgh / Philadelphia / Twin Cities - All mentioned as lower cost to get started, and seem to be experiencing growthI'd ideally like to find a place that has strong potential for future growth, a diversified economy, and I don't mind living in (being close to nature would be a plus). 

Most likely the state where the property is located is where lawsuits would be brought if they are something for personal injury like a trip and fall or something of that nature because the “cause of action” arose in that state.

And they will be scrappy by nature and certainly don't have that kind of downpayment laying around.Second, obviously is price.

This was the most high risk investment I've ever seen, and keep in mind I've done oil, gas & mineral exploration investments so that's really saying something. 

This means 20-25% for a down payment, and it has to be your money that you're using (verifiably in an account that belongs to you).Though there are programs that lend up to 90/100 to first-time investors, those programs usually don't work in Maine due to the rural nature.

My bet on the next twist is the death turning out not to be natural causes.

I am introverted by nature. 

Then when you have some sort of portfolio and your face and name goes around, you naturally will attract people who will want to work with you.

Add a very diversified economy here with banking, insurance, oil and gas, education, three medical schools, 3 law schools, life sciences, DFW airport, and so much more, it looks like the growth just goes on and on.As far as appreciation goes, that's always tough to predict. 

So naturally she is confused (I read this by coincidence).