Buying in Long Island NY

[Kenny Peng]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone has any experience in buying a house in Long Island, my plan is to buy a 2-3 bedroom, where i live in one and rent out the others. I am not sure where is a better market, my budget price is around 500k or less. I have been looking at Long Beach NY, which is more affordable, and closer to where i work in the city, but does have flood issues, it is a popular area to live in, but would this be a good investment? 

With 500k or less budget, where is a better place to start off with in Long Island and what i should be looking for? this will be my first purchase.