I have been exploring the Phoenix, AZ and Denver, CO area but both markets are too red hot and extremely overwhelming with bidding wars. 

Not sure if you've already explored meetups, but there are a couple of REI groups in the Camp Lejeune area. 

Would love to connect with some real estate professionals in Kansas to explore investment opportunities.Would love to find out:Why are property prices so low and rental prices still decent?

Have you explored investing in turnkeys?

I would explore areas on your city that are not inflated with rental homes.

Lease to purchase, which they will likely want to explore so that they have lower out-of-pocket expenses up front; they want to alter the interior walls and totally change the bathrooms to accommodate their needs.

Explore your options and put your agent to work, negotiate from every angle before you just walk away if you think this could be a good investment.

@Ryan Talmadge The PM company recommended a vendor (since they don't handle snow removal themselves) but the quote was far too high so I wanted to explore other options.  

I love California, been raised here nearly all my Life but there are so many factors both personal and business that are pushing us to explore new horizons and Arizona really aligns with our pursuits!

Never done a long distance STR, but I want to explore that idea so as to not limit myself to my community.