Marketability- as I mentioned above. 

I think market auctions are better for newer investors because you're able to see the inside of the property and the property will be delivered vacant.If you win you will have to provide a deposit that is held in escrow until the transaction closes.

There are still sub-$300k markets out there.

You can arguably make it work in any market.

Purchasing a fully furnished 3-bedroom home minutes from a large hospital and a SUNY University.Whom (at the hospital) would I contact to determine if there is a market for mid term rentals.

You clearly don't know our market in Sarasota.  

Quote from @John Paul Palace: Our plan was to invest locally, however our market here is tough.

Your contractors, staff, and the financial markets will create challenges. 

My first piece of advice would be to focus on understanding the market you’re interested in.

Quote from @Robel Nessro: How is President Trump going to effect the Real Estate Industry, will it benefit the investors or impact the market and investors?