Wife and I are looking at properties near my parents in another state. 

If your expenses at 50% you're definitely doing something wrong my expenses of nothing near that

I own a condo in DC near a Johns Hopkins graduate school campus and have had some interest from international students. 

Wait, there's not nearly enough info being shared here!

I’m constantly second guessing my own pursuit: fears of failing health as I age and deal with injuries, the pressures of supporting a family of five, the nearing reality that I’ll need to change a career I’ve made progress in for over a quarter century, and even the social pressure to remain who you are.

Building that relationship and an understanding of your unique situation in the middle of tax season is nearly impossible. 

You can try with a low score but will find it near impossible.

you can search events near you herehttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-an...

And if you hop on I-45, which runs right near town, and head about 15 minutes north, you get to very very nice areas.Pearland is where I live.

I have been listening to Podcast nearly 24/7 and  reading non-stop.