So you'll have to analyze your options based on your goals/objectives from REI.

This is actually biased media with an objective (including Tampa Bay Times).

We put 12% down on the property at a 5.99% rate and contribute another $120 or so every month towards the principle. 

Only you know which locations will fit with the lifestyle part of your objectives so you'd select the places that work for you first.2.

This emphasis on scaling as quickly as possibly means you’re going to become a door chaser and you will look for markets that cater to that objective which normally means weak underlying fundamentals.   

Remember, no system is perfect, so avoid the temptation of constantly chasing after the next shiny object.

.), the location, depth, and capacity of utilities to service the site - including public utilities (sanitary, storm and water services), franchised utilities (power, gas, cable), capacity of the local streets to accommodate additional traffic from your development...Be sure to find out if there are any specific local ordinances you need to satisfy (possible tree & wetland surveys, together with any necessary tree & landscape or wetland mitigation plans) and whether there are any concerns from municipal departments (e.g. hydrant locations from the fire department, storm inlet and retention requirements, as well as asphalt / concrete road requirements from the engineer), entrance requirements from the road commission (left turn and passing lanes at the site entrance), etc.Once you get past all this you can finally prepare a preliminary site plan and enter the political arena to get preliminary site plan approval, and to address any concessions the board and neighbors want from you to overcome their objections to your development.

Conversion rate is extremely low when you get started BUT it will give you good practice speaking with sellers who have a ton of objections.

Your objective is solid and I am wondering if you are would be: 1.

I don’t see the condo ownership  being adverse to your objectives.