My credit score is in the 780s.Because of my loss of W-2 income, I doubt my self-employment income from my 2014 and 2015 tax returns will paint me in a good light (since it was side work, I think my 2014 tax returns says gross was about $10k for the year). 

I want to be able to carve my own path and not be worried about people telling me "if you're not in your career by 35 you'll be doomed to low-paying jobs." 

Our portfolio grew from 2 to 12.At this point, I started to see the light (for me) and decided to sell our properties in Denver.

It was not until recently (read: last week) that the light bulb went off in my head as I listened to random BP podcasts on my way to/from work. 

Properties are generally much cheaper relative to the rent they pull in, than in NY.3) Lower fixed costs - lower real estate taxes for starters relative to your rent roll, etc.4) Lower variable costs - labor is A LOT cheaper here.  5) Less stringent code enforcement.6) Less maintenance - milder weather, and younger average age of homes make for less maintenance.   7) Diversification - low entry price to buy property allows and investor to manage risk by buying properties in different neighborhoods instead of putting more eggs in one basket.In additional to the benefits I listed above the city is growing so fast that homes rent very quickly, often times before the sale of the home.  

I asked my realtor why the low price and the previous owner owes $119k and is trying to leave the area.

Your lender is giving you an opportunity you wouldn't have otherwise (to buy, rehab, rent, refinance and repeat) and in this instance, looks like a fair (even low) price.  

We stopped using bandit signs becasue it cant be a real hassle and the respone rate in my area was very low.

I'm starting off as a no to low money down type investor lol with so much more to learn.

Welcome to BP @Xavier Tazanu Check out Brandon's book on Investing with no or low money down, it's a great resource on creative financing.