From the exercise I'm also building a habit to do due diligence coz it's the BIGGEST mistake a newbie can make in my opinion. to get better understanding and give me confidence for out-of-state investment so I don't regret it.More thoughts on your suggestions: Don't buy in the roughest neighborhood in the urban core.

Personally, there are many avenues to travel, other than MLS - keep searching!

We furnished and rented to traveling nurses.

It bothers me as an investor but it is also the way I like to travel...I have used VRBO and AirBnb extensively and prefer this kind of travel...cities who won’t provide it won’t get my travel dollars

In general terms, to ensure things go well, buy in the best areas you can afford and stay East, Memphis has a bad habit of degentrifying the further west you are.

I can use it to enjoy, give to charity, drink a beer, travel somewhere fun, etc.Can a property appreciate and put EVEN MORE cash in my pocket in the future? 

Hello,I'm traveling and am spending a few days in KC right now.

HappinessSeven Ways to Get Startup CapitalDealing with FailureDealing with Age/Height/Being in Prison/Ill HealthFive Suggestions for Finding a Supportive SpouseDealing with Procrastination/ Windfalls/Falling in Love/It's-free OffersWhat Not to Talk about When You First Meet a Potential SpouseWhat to Disclose on the Third DateChecklist of Personal Habits for Success • How to Dress • How to Talk on the Phone • How to Make Eye Contact • How to Shake HandsLearning Skills in NegotiatingInsurance–What to Buy and What Not to BuyThe Hard Task of Making Decisions That Close off Alternatives in Your LifeLeading a Balanced Life and Still Retiring in 24 YearsNine Barriers to Financial SuccessHow Wealth in a Society Is CreatedOvercoming the Psychological Barriers to Sunk Costs–Deciding Not to Continue Being a Dentist.This book is written for 10th grade through adult. 

Align this with the life style you want (ie travel more, work less, spend more time with family...). 

Michigan Investment Title there based out of Romeo, MI they will travel to you.