You can set up google alerts for an easy way to stay up to date on where jobs are relocating to and how many jobs will be formed.

So, I am hoping to set myself some limits and get some advice on how much work is to much work for a rehab?

For example 10% down payment is very normal and setting up a rehab escrow for 95% of rehab costs is typical as well. 

Anything large should set off the alarms.   

I'm setting up Buildium and am trying to structure my leases, payments, and expenses through the business accounts. 

I also saw an interesting article from the National Apartment Association that charges the tenants to have a package pickup locker. https://www.naahq.org/news-publications/communities-set-package-delivery-programs

Supplement it with some business / legal classes, Spanish (if you plan on being around construction), take some real estate classes if offered as electives and you should be all set.

I will have around 100k to be used on a personal property and/or first deal.My goal is to focus on commercial real estate using cash flowing apartment complexes in order set myself up for early retirement.

Are you dead set on living in the place, or living close to it?  

Banks have "Loan Loss Reserves" set aside to cover the difference.