Cashflow isn't easy here but appreciation is super strong.

As the state capital, it boasts a strong government and military presence, supported by the nearby Air Force Base.

You can save a lot on costs if you do many repairs yourself.Look into hard money lenders or private lenders for the initial purchase and rehab.Connect with wholesalers, agents specializing in investment properties, and other BRRRR investors to find deals and learn more.

Demand and occupancy appears strong, but the numbers don't add up for me to justify the effort of STR.

Or give any one area a leg-up, besides the initial players like Virginia. 

Strong work!

Your ability to turn around a property with an 11% cap rate is a pretty strong selling point.

Since you’re considering converting the upper unit into a short-term rental, you may also want to implement strict rules around smoking or strong odors in your house rules to avoid future issues.

Initially, we wanted to  have the loan under my wife's name only but my the loan officer from the builder's lending arm told us that if I am in the buyer, the RE Agent and the mortgagor (in the loan), I could use my agent commission towards closing costs and down payment.

It explains the team that you should develop to have a strong foundation under you while investing remotely.https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/core-four-real-estate-team