Would this be the ideal market, or are there other rental options we should explore? 

@Collin StewartSince you're PCSing to Columbia, SC, and have VA loan entitlement remaining, house hacking a small multifamily with a VA loan is a strong option since it requires zero down.

I can get prime-0.51% on a HELOC but I don't love the risk to my monthly payments if rates rise - that is why I like the fixed second mortgage option. 

If you can make a conventional loan work, it’s likely a better option.

As mentioned above it depends on your goals as well as what each options provides you. 

I am slowly going crazy with how expensive Massachusetts is and I am leaning towards looking at cheaper foreclosure properties.I understand there is some risk to this but I am beginning to think this is the only option I will have because of how fast the market is growing.Thank you for any insight you may have!

Be prepared that they will be promoting an optional mentorship program at the end.

Creative financing options like seller financing or assuming a low-interest FHA loan can also help you secure better terms.

But it would be nice to have an option to uncheck that box this time around since they're already in place.

Plus, many of the properties here are older and not exactly cheap.My other option is Tucson, AZ, where I’m originally from.