Rural areas are typically defined as areas with populations of fewer than 35,000 people.Use: The property must be used primarily for rental purposes and provide affordable housing options for low- to moderate-income tenants.Developer/Owner Eligibility: The developer or owner must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the USDA, including financial stability and experience in property management.Income Limits: The tenants who will be residing in the multifamily property must meet income eligibility limits set by the USDA.

Hey Hunter,I think Columbus is a great option to consider when getting into rentals.

Common benefits are:- Opening and scanning mail to email you a copy of what was inside- Shredding/disposing of unwanted mail- physically forwarding mail to another address (for a fee of course)- Depositing checks that they receive on your behalf.Just google "virtual mailbox dallas" and you'll see plenty of options for that market.

Even some commercial lenders will have an option. 

Due on Sale gives the lender the option, but not the obligation, to call the loan due.

Conduct thorough market research, assess the demand for rentals in that area, and analyze the potential returns on investment.If you determine that the property has strong rental potential and you are willing to build a remote management team, keeping it as a rental property could be a viable option.

I haven't personally messed with development, and I have not personally worked with any of the folks I would recommend, but I do know them personally and trust that they would be fair, honest, and work to help you understand your options. 

Another option is Waivo or Safely for guests' damage protection, and Safely does guest screening for you.

I wasn't sure if holding in escrow was an option.

Hard money is definitely a good option to access funds to purchase another property