If you still want to be able to drive to the property within a few hours, I would recommend checking out communities in Pennsylvania or Delaware.

Before I drive into this aspect, I want to increase my funding by looking for a new job opportunity that will allow me to have another source of income as well as pick up some more relatable knowledge and experience in this field of RE.

I will be finding leads via MLS and begin look off market for deals via craiglist, and driving for dollars.

If we drive... we combine trips and drive our cars 15+ year old car. 3.

That is driving out there, flying out to the location, running the numbers yourself, meeting the crews they have, looking over the inspection report by yourself, looking at the appraisal by yourself.

I drive by all the motels every evening. 

You could also offer real estate agents a large referral fee for management referrals A great place to get all your information and training and third party help for managing day to day is at NARPM 

I usually stay away form auctions because there are several buyers which drive up prices.  

Less property hassle and less tenant hassle make things easier when you can drive by it (easily) on the weekend. 

Disclaimer: I have never sold a million dollar property nor have I done anything more than drive through Houston....But 3.7 mil seems awfully high for Houston Texes.