The more affordable ones may not be in areas that have transitioned - and maybe never will. 

Seem like B class is the way to go during this time...C class: no job, can't afford rent and I can't evict so at least a few months of no rent coming out and mortgage still need to come out :( and  A class : no Cash Flow.  

Im not sure but perhaps i would describe Tulsa more favorable as a reliable, predictable, and affordable buy and hold long term rental market; while DFW more favorable as a market with pockets that still have nice growth potential for buy and hold rentals and heavier appreciation potential.

You don't want and need surprises you can't afford :) 

Can I really afford $1?  

Microsoft and Amazon are moving in, the city just installed 5G (first city of its size to do so), 48% of the housing stock is affordable to millennials.

@Jeff LehmanI have used a service called Resident Research that does all of these at an affordable price. 

We are interested in south Austin based on what we can afford and after speaking to a local real estate agent.

Exactly my thought, but I figure there has to be a way to get it done affordably. 

I think it's definitely worth making a few phone calls.Another option would be (if you can afford to do so) is to pay off the lender, and do an owner carry back for a year until they can refi??