Best option- old cheap house in remote city vs brand new in major city

[Toluwaniyin David]

I'm in a bit of a dilemma. I work in a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada with very affordable housing (3bd,2bth between 160-215k). Rent prices are similar to city prices as well. However, the downside is that the resale of property in the town takes time. The houses are pretty dated and are a great opportunity to renovate and force appreciation. 

My other option is to get a brand-new home in Regina. Its a 3 bd room, 2-bath house and comes with a legal secondary basement suite and a double garage which would cost 450k. A 3 bedroom goes for 1750-1850 excluding utilities.

I'm stuck between which one is the better option given the following factors:

1) I plan to live the city in 1-2 years.

2) I would still be living in the remote town if I buy the home in Regina so I would be paying my rent (800-1000) plus whatever mortgage and utility bills for the home in Regina. 

3) If I choose to buy in the town, I can house hack, cash flow, and possibly force appreciation. 

What would you do in my case ?