I'm not sure I live up to @Tiger M. 's

I have seen developments like that In Mississippi that were all section 8.. and yes very much like you would build a prison unit. to take the abuse that comes with it.. 

I don't own any yet, about to graduate with MS in engineering to help save up for a down payment :)

Ms.

Perhaps the reason I am leaning towards a more formal education (MBA/MS) is because I've spent the majority of my life in school and the idea of self study/learning leaves me a little apprehensive and unsure if I will truly be able to become successful in management, seeing as how I have no experience whatsoever.

Ms.

I personally bought 2.2 million worth of new construction in 2005 2006  there by writing off about 1 mil those two years and used those tax savings for my down payments. rather put it to the property than pay the tax  once you pay the tax it does you no good.In MS and LA many many business rebuilt or bought new facilities which stimulated the recovery and this would happen here in Houston like it was on steroids I bet.

GA, AL, MS?? 

I’m sure he could talk more about that. private timberland sales and harvesting is a lot more competitive then when I did it 20 years ago.. still money in it if done right.you can do that in the Carolinas as well as GA  MS  AL  FLA   ID  MT  and even CA 

I'd be very careful about buying turnkey in Jackson, Ms unless you actually go and see the property and the neighborhood.