I’m very content and happy where I’m at right now but would eventually like to move back to that neighborhood as both my aging parents live there.

Our goal is to acquire 5 properties by age 35, and we want as many of them as possible to be in Denver.

There are definitely some key points to consider with this though such as Income Verification, References, Terms and Conditions that I would recommend having.

With baseline green yellow red based on age.  

Guest verification is big deal unless they are coming from credible OTAs like Airbnb. 

Those type of buyers are trying to beat the bank for yield they can get there.I typically ask what a potential clients goals are with their current income from a job or business, age, family info, how much passive income they want to eventually achieve annually, current net worth, and liquidity levels.

Have 2 deals on table approved stage one just dont want payout more $ for verification on stage 2 if this is BS

The average age of the number 1 single family home owner is greater than 2010 and less than 15 years old and they are now building homes new construction and owning them. the exact opposite of your strategy. older homes are the cheaper ones and unless you have experience I'd build in columbus close to downtown. same reason Toledo and Cleveland don't move the needle and there aren't 100 institutions in those markets. columbus is barely on the radar. 

. - We have 2 children (ages 9 and 11).

If I were 30 years younger (your age) I would look to experienced intelligent investors to help guide me.