We have a hospital nearby and some of the physicians work 7-on 7-off and live a few hours away.

What kind of properties are nearby??

I will research those markets over the next few months as well as look into meetup groups nearby.

For each listing/seller client, call your database to spread the word... call other homeowners nearby to ask, "Who do you know that is looking to make a move to the area.".. 

Since they are nearby, they would have local housekeeping and handyman contacts for cleaning and emergencies.

To win in property deals, keep up with nearby shifts, look at loan choices, connect with banks, and think about hiring someone to oversee properties.

I think Detroit is a great idea, especially since you live nearby.

However, if you do your market research to determine the supply & demand and look at what other Boat & RV Storage Facility's are doing nearby, and pick a good market (Florida - the entire state is practically a boaters paradise, and for those that don't boat, well then, they RV. 

We have had the free membership on CI for a few years with the hope of networking on deals with nearby RE investors; nothing measurable has come from it yet that we can tell. 

@Elan Adler,As @Michael S. said, a $250,000 budget is going to be a bit tight if you’re looking to buy in Huntsville proper.Luckily, your budget would go a long way in nearby suburbs.