REI in NYC vs Northern NJ

[Vaughn Smith]

Does anyone have any experience in investing in NYC and Northern NJ? I have lived in both and I'm familiar with several neighborhoods in both areas, I'm going to make my first purchase (house hack) at the end of the year and not sure which market is the better overall option, here is what I'm interested in finding out:

1- Cash Flows -Which area has a better chance of finding a reasonably priced properties that cash flow?

2- Appreciation- Is one area better than the next?

3- Cost of ownership- I know NJ property taxes are some of the highest in the nation but I can't find out too much on NYC taxes fees etc

Any additional info you can provide to compare and contrast the two markets would be appreciated even if its something that I didnt mention above. I know that great opportunities can be found in any market, but I'm trying to get a feel for the investing landscape of both.

Thanks