On one hand, I can't see how the market can continue to support the existing price levels when dual-income professionals can't afford to buy even a starter home. 

Don't buy them just to look professional.

Might be worth talking to qualified professional.

They could be for professionals in a specific industry, like high tech or medical field or just general business networking events.

When I wanted to setup an LLC for my self-directed IRA for instance I used KKOS lawyers from the west coast because it's something they specialize in.I don't think you necessarily need to be local with those professionals unless you really want a face-to-face relationship. 90% of whatever you need will happen over phone or email anyway even if they're in town.

Second, the point of posting a property for rent is to receive inquiries, so if you are not in a position to promptly respond to them and show the home, you may consider hiring a professional management company to do this for you.

@Dave Foster apparently agrees with this point, and he is a professional exchange intermediary.Yes, there is some debate about that spousal issue, hence the 50% warning, but I don't believe their concern is valid.

Yes your plan is possible and there are other investors/professionals up here marketing as well. 

I look for major cracks on the outside walls and wood rot by the roof.

And I am dealing with educated professionals in the 250K range for annual income.