Beginner Investor in Greater Boston Area

[Adi Oturkar]

I have been doing some research and decided to invest in real estate in Greater Boston Area. Budget - 250-350K With this low budget in the costly metro area, I am thinking of areas such as Attleboro, Worcester, Lowell, Fall River. My goal is to have a positive cash flow and get good appreciation on the property.

My first question is, am I focusing on the correct cities or should I wait to build more cash and buy it closer to Boston? 

Which other cities fit my budget?

Also considering the elections are ahead of us, is it a good time to buy? I know there's never a good or bad time but I am looking for some experienced people to weigh in. In the worst event of market crash, would I still be able to draw the cash flow?