With my in-laws living in Augusta,  I visit the area a few times a year, and it definitely seems like there’s some potential in the market.  

I'm a guy approaching middle-age, living in Chicago.

A 1/1 with a 4/2 on top is perfect for the hacker to live in the 1/1 and cash flow on the higher rents.2.

Just thank your deity that you don’t live in a rent controlled city/state.

I don't do this for a living and have no real world experience, but at 40% down, even with a 7% int rate, that seems like a high monthly payment.

Virtually everyone lives somewhere especially true for those that pay taxes (in CA property and income tax).  

You may also want to consider purchasing multi-unit properties and live in one of the units.

It's actually harder if you are currently living in the property, want to cash out, and then have it as a rental as you haven't proven to the bank that the property will cash flow $600 a month on top of the NEW mortgage costs. 1.

You will enjoy the serenity of rural living, complete with a large cleared backyard perfect for homesteading, gardening, or recreation.

Thanks, Dan Audino Have you considered a live and flip?