Identify which market you want to be in and start making connections there.

Its all what the market will bear .  

Initially we were set on purchasing a Primary Residence again, single family or townhome within reach of my sons school and continuing life as usual, but feel like we are slightly priced out of the market we want and areas we need to live. 

Lower rates, more buyers in the market, more competition.

The other market I'm interested in is Dayton, Ohio.

Learn the basics of financials in RE, build a strong team on the ground, understand the ins and outs of RE and what market your in, understand how to actually flip the home and what strategy you are doing (Highly recommend the BRRR) as holding homes is where the money is made.REAL ESTATE IS NOT EASY!!!

Nashville is a hot market for Rentals currently and it seems like that won't change anytime soon, and I've noticed that people are renting in Columbia and Madison quite frequently.

The property is back on the market.  

Based on your experience, in general, what is the rational or the steps in getting into a new market.

Interior and exterior renovations and improved management plan in order to increase rents closer to market and mitigate expenses.