Rural Properties, Specifically Midwest

[Sam Luebbers]

New to the mindset change, happy to be on a better long term path. I've begun saving my down payment for first property. 

I currently live in the St. Louis area, and while there are some markets that I think could make decent return through my research, I wouldn't have saved the down payment for another year or so. 

However, I'm originally from Southern Missouri, and still go down to visit my father and some friends. Houses down in this area are almost given away if they need work it seems when compared to the city. And when I say Rural, I don't mean only house on the street kind or Rural, I mean small towns of 10,000 or so. 

My ask is for advice or things to look for in rural investing when compared to an urban environment. I know the abundance of land means no appreciation, but I'm looking for cash flow anyway. 

Thanks to everyone ahead of time!