Since you're considering markets like Cleveland, Columbus, Birmingham, and Memphis, have you thought about exploring opportunities closer to home in the Oklahoma City/Tulsa area?

We kept getting outbid on homes and opened up our search.Still, we started looking at investing in rentals in A2 but realized the cash flow was thin.

@Prabhash Shrestha this is going to be tough, I analyze a ton of deals for my investors and most properties just don't make sense and it's not getting any better as home values appreciate and rents aren't keeping up.

You'll need to know if your site will gravity feed to sewer, need easements to cross other properties, or will need a pump station or grinder pumps for each home.  

My best friend is moving into the house alone; her son will reside there during summers home from college. 

I still haven't purchased my first home.

I have a single family home renting furnished for a very high amount for the area.

Do I need to do a home inspection prior to purchase? 

I finally saved up enough capital to purchase a decent town home or condo in Las Vegas.  

Perhaps focus on homes with longer days on market, ones that didn't sell during the initial two weeks because priced too high or needs updates but would still pass a loan appraisal.