We are FI-minded and although this will be our primary residence for many years, we have an *investment* mindset and would like someone with similar values and visions to help us decide on the best property. 

You have to trust the contractor will have your best interests in mind and not gouge you on the pricing  or respond to tenant related or nonsensical issues (ie, I have a broken slat on my miniblind and need it to be replaced). 

Looking to connect with like minded investors in the area.I often work out of the area as I have a full time career in sales focused in IT. 

That would probably be the best way to get started and network.Attend local REIA meetings and connect with like-minded investors: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet

The kill zone is 120-140f, keeping in mind they can be behind heat barriers.

I'll certainly keep that in mind. 

Is the owner allowed to change mind after contract is Sold

You should be able to save more money while deployed, but keep in mind it's only 9-12 months.

Keep in mind that a title search is NOT title insurance, and if something is missed, or you're not first position, it's your problem.

also what 30 yr fixed  rate are you considering and what are the closing costs/ loan fees  associated  with the refinance …..you might ask  for  " low cost "  rate options for the refinance  in order to keep these expenses down …...if you refinance the loan to a new  30 yr fixed in order to make it cash flow better - always keep in mind that you can  apply extra payments to the new loan to  whittle the balance down