Both are strong cash flow markets.

I'm pretty flexible on my entry level job, some sort of investment analyst will likely be my strong suit.

Be prepared to make a strong offer and provide the funds timely. 

The rental market here is very strong.

This will be a strong tailwind for the Class C rental market, as low-wage tenants can afford rising rental rates.2.

I'd strongly urge you to hire a public adjuster. 

Although I strongly disagree with not sharing your contacts openly with other investor is the right thing to do here, don’t forget we all started at someplace and all reached out to someone we knew for help and resources didn’t we?

Even if it is zoned for single family homes, you might be able to build it and rent it on Airbnb for WAY more then just an apartment and you get the added bonus of a guesthouse on your property without the loss of privacy with having someone in the apartment all the time.  

So understanding the market your investing I would strongly encourage you not to pay tenant utilities. 

If you offer once per week with serious and strong offers, you eventually will get one.