Current primary residence is a 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, 2 acre lot, with a fenced in, in-ground pool and 20x20 koi fish pond.

For example, a stabilized NNN Rite Aid acquisition will lend much differently than a ground-up multifamily development. 

The benefit you get from manufactured homes, at least in our experience, is a lower price compared to stick built with almost identical rents as stick built.

Fellow newbie looking to invest with someone in Provo with boots on the ground.

I don't think it is wise to look at the 5 year appreciation numbers for SD and compare them with cash flow in the midwest.

Now, however, I am looking to do it during school so I can hit the ground running after...

Comparable sales in the area can be very misleading unless you know the area. 

Based on my current experience with this compared to #1 and #2.There is an advantage to cutting your teeth on something easier up front...that being said I think you can buy bigger and do a Great Job focusing on inspections to cover your back side, and get best of both worlds.

the market is very strong in Margate but I’m not exact on how it compares if you bought at peak. 

I am a relative newbie as well compared to many on this site, but I would glad to offer you any advice that I can to help you get started.