Memphis or Little Rock would be great options if you're looking for stable, slow growing areas that will yield more for you monthly.

As a part of the acquisition, all my stock options were accelerated and paid out as cash through payroll.

There is an option to give equity, but I do not love that option in all cases. 

The two most obvious options at hand are : A/ Accumulating capital through my job before investing in real estate B/ Asking for a bank loan that would allow me to invest sooner, saving time, after doing market research Which strategy is better, in your regards ?

Kenmore, Bothell, Brier, and Woodinville all have great options.

Seller financing is a GREAT option if you can get a seller to agree to this (which is not easy).

Is Homeaglow an option for Short term cleaning services?

As a last resort I would ask their realtor if it's an option to have them apply for a down payment assistance grant, instead of you footing the bill.  

I suspect adding you to title is not a good option.  

You can then sell the option to a solar developer, but they too won't execute the lease until they confirm they can develop.