You will turn off far to many quality tenants that think you are being ridiculous. 

Education is key to this career.

I had been working in the Music Industry for the past five years, but after getting married in October 2015 I realized that the Music Industry is a single man's game and I decided I wanted to transition into a different career. 

If I had to do all over again, I would buy in areas that attract better quality tenants.Personally, I would never go under 1% unless I was very confident the area is going up in value.  

Here's my dilemma: I've ONLY seen the good so far in my career.

I am really trying to figure out the best career route that will enable me financially to move quickly and wisely into the exciting world of REI.

You can build shutters for ~10 bucks a pop including stain/paint with 1x6 cedar boards and two strips of 1x4 cedar (or whatever quality wood you want).  

All parties have good intentions but you will be wiser to start your land lording career with a safer bet.Laws vary from state to state on your rights when sharing your own private property. 

I am slowly getting comfortable with pulling the trigger soon but would like to know of quality/trustworthy agents, mortgage brokers, and property managers in the area that I could utilize since I am not physically in the area.

Being a Realtor and Broker laid the foundation for everything I ever did in my career and that is a lot..