first property advice

[Carrie Brauninger]

Hello,  I am wondering what ppl's thoughts are on this scenario.  I live in Denver metro area and can't afford to buy a property as an investment property as the down payment will take awhile to save due to cost of homes.  I am toying with 2 different scenarios.  1) buy a home and live in it for 2 years so I can put less down and then use my current home as a rental, or 2) invest our of state where I know less about the area.  My initial thoughts are Michigan, where I am from, but I hear it isn't landlord friendly or Florida where I spend some time but I'm worried about cost of insurance after hurricanes etc.  Would love to hear ppl's thoughts if you have the time for a first time investor.  Ultimately, I see myself investing not necessarily for cash flow (although that would be a bonus) but more so for appreciation where I can then sell it closer to retirement.  Essentially, real estate being a place I can park my money.  TIA.