There are markets that have built in "gotchas" like the rising cost of insurance in coastal FL, regulations in much of the west coast states and property taxes in Texas; however, the deal itself is the most critical factor.

That is something that is growing due to the limitations of STR.MTR is something that will help you but you will have to be a bit flexible in the times that you are planning to come in.Management is cheaper than STR, but you have to consider other factors such as close to places where those MTR are in need.

That’s the very simplified version but raising capital is always your biggest limiting factor so the more investors you can connect with the better. 

Make sure we're accounting for the appreciation, cost of the sale, cost of the purchase and one of my favorite factors, the risk.

Most times landlords don't have data or cannot adequately factor in vacancy time or turnover rate.

You can put it all in that until you figure out what to do.One thing you didn't factor in your post is taxes.

FICO, experience, and LTV are also factors but this is the basis of the loan.

2) Maintenance Reserves: So many factors here to consider!

The baby on the way should not factor into your decision. 

Taxes are calculated on the gain (e.g. sale price - purchase price + expenses, broken down fairly clearly by @Jake Baker) not just on the sale price.The tax treatment on sale of a Primary Residence vs.