New Investor here! Can you help with a few questions?

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Hi there,

What is important and on what do I need to pay attention when buying and managing my own properties? I would be a first time buyer, interested in a multifamily property I am able to manage by myself (3-6 units), with a instant cash flow as a second income. I have a few general questions to see whats possible for me.

1. Market: Should I buy in the area I live in when I plan to manage it by myself? 

2. I saw pretty cheap buildings with good annual returns/fully occupied in areas such as Bridgeport or Hartford, CT - are these good investments and how do I determine whats a good investment? 

3. A option could be to buy a distressed house, renovate and rent-out. Can you recommend good areas to do so? (NY, NJ, CT). I am just uncertain. I need a property that will gain in worth over the years not only bringing a few thousand dollars in every year.

Please give me some first time buyer advise. (I am working with real estate abroad - but have no U.S experience)