I have my primary residence single family home paid off in full Zestimate ~$500K, and no other outstanding loans for cars, schools, credit cards, and in good financial position with 2 years of reserves for expenses, etc.

That means you can spend up to $70,000 on the purchase price and renovations and it would still be considered a good deal, according to the 70% rule. 

Is Alabama/Birmingham good?

It's good for networking, finding vendors and getting new ideas and the like. 

I’ve researched the rental market here and it’s pretty good.

Good luck! 

Good philosophy @Dawn Anastasi!

You will need to create the story for why these properties are a good investment, especially if you are divesting for distressed reasons.

That is a good first step.

I want to use the bp tools to make a good presentation to market it to buyers.