A speculator is someone who buys with the intent of improving and flipping.Most people who call themselves wholesalers are wannabe dealmakers who don't have the capacity to close on a deal themselves.

I am treating being an agent as a business instead of a job/career.

Work on improving your credit score and building your cash reserves.Do you intend to house hack upon arrival?

No problem w/that but you also state you are working a full time job and ultimately you want passive income.  

Great job on all the detail.

My promotion was an actual condition of employment, meaning TVA hired me to pass or look for another job.

Look at the managers for both sectors; look at the amount of work that you will be doing- pick the option that allows you to learn as much as possible and develop your skills as a real estate professional (the job/manager that is fun might not be the best for you to grow). 

I make between $130-240,000 a year (very thankful for a great job) and have a ton of savings.

As soon as you can comfortably do it after you close on an improved property get the exterior door locks changed.  

They work more hours and more jobs.