I physically live in this area and  know it well.

Even when you have a high-paying job you are still far better off to lose money by taking off from your high-paying job and do a lot of hands-on physical work and management.

Lower returns, yet higher margin of physical safety net/reassurance.

So you'd have to physically move to a tax haven to escape.

We're FAR from that.SA is by far one of the most affordable markets in Texas, and its proximity to Austin makes it very desirable for people that do not want to spend a small fortune.Here are my questions to help you better:What are you factoring for your expenses from Gross cash flow?

Excellent schools, Lake Lanier, and proximity to Atlanta are the main draws.

If you are not required to get flood insurance you still may want to purchase it depending on the location, proximity to the riskier flood zones, etc.Because many of the "Private Market" Flood Insurance programs only need the address and minimal info it is easy to get an approximate rate.  

Some tell me to call the Assessors office and schedule an appeal and an inspector will physically come to the unit to reassess. 

I intend to purchase and then move.I would prefer long term leases however the proximity to colleges led me to believe that short term rentals to grad students could be an option.I am open to minimal renovations as I am not experienced and would be relying on others as I learn.

There are many lenders who do small loans (I do) but if you do not have similar size and proximity sold in last 3 months with a loan (not for cash) you will be wasting your money on a new appraisal.