The macroeconomics here is booming - the tech sector growth keeps the population and job market growing and rental demand strong.

(high five) I work from home in the Tech industry as a software Product Manager. 

The real estate industry has changed a lot in the last 5 years and many real estate brokerages are going down the same path as commercial brokerages.

"Industrial chic."

@Constance Kang well you discovered how many of the most expensive REI instructors work in this industry.

The best way to leverage 80k in this industry is based off of your skill set.Are you handy?

You are wise to limit your scope to a particular type of company.I have been in the industry for the past two decades, and from my years in the business, I can recommend a couple of other companies outside of my family. 

Knowing this information will help you identify the right professionals to bring on board.At minimum, your team team should include:Financial Advisor: to help with investment strategies - portfolio diversification and risk management.Real Estate Agent/Broker: to help with property acquisition and market analysis.Accountant or Tax Advisor: to help manage financial records, tax planning, and optimization.Attorney: to provide legal counsel for contracts, agreements, and investment structures.Mentor or Coach: to offer guidance, insights, and industry knowledge.Networking and Relationship Builder (for everything else you will need): to connect you with potential partners and collaborators.

He's a partner in an STR management company and is very active in that sector right now in the Charleston area. 

Out of the areas in KY that is not one I would have thought would be on most out of state investors radars.I am still in the initial stages of my research, but Owensboro made into the list while choosing candidates based on cities with diverse economy with significant industries for an LTR.