For my area, looking to stay under $180k but could adjust slightly.

LIHTC properties can have requirements that stay with the property for up to 15 years.

This also gives me solid staying power when maintenance costs arise. 

I don't think being a long distance landlord is as easy as some tout but full disclosure I've stayed with 80 miles of my primary residences. 

If I wasnt going to be doing this I would just be saving more money and staying for free with my parents.

What if the person staying at your place signed a contract but their 1st payment check bounced.

@Eric Martin recommend you focus on Class B rentals and stay away from Class C & D.

There are more complicated strategies to maximize larger listings that involve having like multiple listings for same property and do individual room rentals when it is slower and then for larger length stays, larger groups, and more desirable dates you'd book the whole space, but I think its easier to just do two separate. 

I have a bachelors in Construction Managements and run substation electrical jobs for a living while my wife is a stay at home mom with the kids.

Social media is a great way for you to stay in touch with your sphere of influence and tell them that you are now in the real estate business and would like to help them and anyone that they know buy or sell real estate.