First Deal, Tri-Plex Help

[Nate Ollmann]

Hello BP.  I've got two properties I'm evaluating for my first deal.  The problem is, I'm not sure which one is going to be the wiser investment.  Here is the short of it:

Property 1 is 30 minutes from my house.  Tenants indicated they're happy and based on the condition they're keeping their respective residence in, I believe them.  It's a tri-plex cash-flowing $225.  It's based in a smaller town, which could lead to more difficult time filling vacancies in the future.  House is old, but appears to have good bones.

Property 2 is much closer to home.  Tenants are not as happy and at-least one advised they will be leaving at the end of summer.  Again, a tri-plex, cash flowing $190.  It's located in a bigger city and would most likely be a bit easier to fill vacancy.  The house is old as well, with some issues (all 3 furnaces will need to be replaced within 3-5 years).

What would be the wisest choice for a first investment?

Thank you for the help BP.