As a resident (who travels a lot) I would say the Midwest does not have the attractions like palm trees & beaches (the great lakes are cold) or amazing mountain ranges, which often come with some disadvantages like high cost of living or hut/humid weather, stroms etc. 

I'd start with attending local investor meet ups.

Initially I’m wanting to start in the local Chattanooga/North Georgia area

Have a picture of your family actually installing a big fancy door.And of course, I assume that you are licensed/bonded/imsured as required by your local laws?

To get started, connect with a knowledgeable real estate agent and lender, practice analyzing deals, and network through local investor meetups.

Quote from @Kyle Carter: The comps that come from local real estate agents will be the best for this one.

Please message me and I can answer any questions you may have on real estate, local meetups or the local area.  

The PM will also fix things when needed, using local handymen or contractors, and collect the rent for you.

A few things I’d suggest as a local investor:Know Your Markets: New England is a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas with very different dynamics.

About me, most of my assets are RE but in another market so I would be diversifying in that market.Potential for appreciation is very uncertain: prices have risen a lot locally lately and are as high as they have ever been, and it’s unlikely higher prices would be affordable by locals.