Best starting area for North east noob during covid?

[Saurabh Verma]

I'm interested in buying cash flowing rentals and wanted to start with SFHs or a cheaper multifam. I'm based out of NYC and this is basically impossible in nyc area. I wanted to start close to home first so I can learn the process in case there are issues and I need to visit.

1) What areas would you recommend close to NYC that would be a decent place to look for a starter rental? $100-200k range and cashflowing. Hoping to avoid bad neighborhoods.

2) I'm reluctant to start in NY bc of the moratorium on evictions and potentially getting into a bad situation from the beginning. Are NJ, CT, or PA better in terms of tenant management and more landlord friendly?

Where should I start looking?

Thanks!