For a regular 1031 you will find a range of prices from 900 ish to 1500 ish for a complete exchange. 

However, you will find it difficult being that both of you are W-2 with your main activity to produce income being outside the real estate profession.

Each strategy produces slightly different rent rates.

Plus you’re moving regularly.

The City of Montgomery is the Capital of Alabama with a robust economic environment that has produced multiple awards of excellence at the Chamber of Commerce level.

There is a case for buying well-located solid assets that produce immediate current cash flow at reasonable leverage. 

@Michelle Reid Both LTR and STR strategies are viable and currently producing good results in the current market, which isn't easy to find everywhere else.

This is due to bonus depreciation which allows taxpayers to deduct 100% of qualifying property costs in the first year, in addition to regular depreciation for new construction and improvement.

It seems to be a great cash-producing asset. 

Your best bet is probably to get your real estate license and start actively being a real estate professional or buy a STR in your market that you can physically be at on a regular basis.