Here, about 5-6 times a year in hurricane season people drive and park their cars at the highest local area so they won't flood.

Currently in San Diego on orders, and it's a short drive away.

Read a time tested classic real estate investment book, by an author like Bill Nickerson and Jimmy Napier5.

I usually have the audio stuff playing while on my drives.

I always try to be on the side of the angels, but a deal that can pass the Doom-and-Gloom test is usually much more solid than one that depends on unicorns and candy sprinkles aligning with the planets. 

I visited my bank this morning but their mortgage person works at branches all over the state and indicated he would try to call me in the morning.My W2 job is a 40 minute drive from home and most of the branches he works out of, while I have no problem dropping what I am doing and headed his way if necessary, since I only have a "may call back" I am feeling like I am going to miss out on a $50k future equity deal.

I'd recommend you see Huntsville, Madison, and Decatur for yourself - I think you will understand the census data very quickly when you drive through all 3 locations and compare them.   

I'll start looking for places to interact with other investors and drive for dollars on my days off.

Just keep in mind, every penny given to Zillow funds their warchest to drive you (and me) out of business.

It also drives down the value of your property.