When evaluating markets for rental properties, there are a lot of factors to consider: population growth, employment rates, rent to price ratio/GRM/Cap Rate, rent trends, vacancy rates, etc. 

Ideally want to break even or cash flow with the 3 tenants.

I highly encourage everyone to view the property before putting money down, but that's not ideal for many of them, so I do allow them to rent "sight unseen," but I am very open with them to ensure they don't show up and back out.1.

Look at factors like proximity to jobs, schools, transportation hubs, etc.

Ideally you would put only one persons name on the mortgage unless you absolutely had to have both to qualify.  

Warner Robin's is another great market...there's  an airforce base and it's in close proximity to Macon which makes it ideal.

To do this, they have a team consisting of an inspector, a makelaar, and renovation professionals.However, as Ken M. mentioned, having someone trustworthy there to manage everything would also be a key factor.

What occupancy percentage and turnover cost did you factor in?

A HELOC offers flexibility and lower interest rates, which can be ideal if you’re looking for short-term financing with lower payments during construction.

Quote from @Andrew Betts: A single family home with a pool near Disney would be ideal, however there are around 70,000 of those available.