Where should I be considering?

[David Lawrence]

I am based in Manhattan and am looking to invest between around $60k in cash, into one or two properties, I have other money saved so this is real estate investment money. I want to utilize a mortgage/s, for personal tax reasons. I am considering investing into one or potentially two properties, for buy and hold. I believe I can get more bang for my buck away from New York and am hoping to solicit suggestions on where my money would be able to do the most work.I have no preference as to whether the location is close to NY or not. 

I have the next few months off work, so have the time to learn about an area and the people I would want to work with there. Any suggestions on what cities or areas in the US I should be looking at to get the best return?

Thanks,

David