-Use technology - There are so many incredible tools that can help investors determine areas of focus and analyze properties for purchase.

I graduated from Minnesota state Mankato with a bachelors degree in information technology.

Proximity is not as important as it used to be with the technology available today. 

So far I am using "smart home" technology to help me remotely manage the property, and its working out splendidly.The other nice thing about being within driving distance is it makes the property search easier.  

Technology advancements such as email, phone calls, skype has enabled communication with a remote CPA to be seamless.

If I choose out of state, then I would have to rely on technology ALOT more.

UofA is eventually seeing lots of brand new buildings with decent Technology VS older neighborhood houses with high rents being asked by landlords.

- What sort of technological resources are available (I'm a nerd and love tech and love the ease of electronic signatures)?

There are a few general requirements such as:Battery Storage Technology: Battery must have a minimum capacity of three kilowatt-hours.Solar Water Heating: The property must be certified by the Solar Rating Certification Corporation (or an entity that is comparable)Geothermal Heat Pumps: At the time the expenditures are made, the heat pump must meet all Energy Star standards that are in effect.Energy Efficient Home Improvement CreditThis tax credit rewards those taxpayers that make upgrades in order to reduce the overall energy consumption of their home.

My suggestions would be the Fredericksburg area, which is conveniently half way in between both as well as the Greater Richmond area.The Fredericksburg area offers the appeal of being conveniently half way between DC and Richmond and has a thriving business/industrial sector including Geico, DHL, McKesson, idX, greenchip, and First Line Technologies along with being home to the University of Mary Washington and Mary Washington Health Care.The Greater Richmond area offers the appeal of being the State Capital, has a strong business/industrial/financial sector including Altria, GE, Meta, Lego, CapitalOne, Carmax, and Brinks to name just a few of the big players.