@Natalie Kolodij I think you are sought of on the right path but may be thinking too much at this point, I don't disagree on having multiple options, but here is how I would lay it down: (also I am not a big savy investor like other BP members, please don't hammer me on what I have to say :-) )
1. If you want to flip then yearly appreciation rates should not matter much, as that will be a short term investment anyways, you are going to hold that property for max 6 months, all you need is a sweet deal below MV where you are pour your love into it make it look nice and sell it for the MV or little over the current MV
2. Yes you would have more cash flow than Seattle but cash flow can mean different for different people
a. Are you just looking for a stable neighborhood with good tenants and constant positive cash flow with no appreciation - yes, there are such investors - are you this one?
b. Are you looking for an investment in a A grade neighborhood which does not give much cash flow , kinda break evens but has a potential of appreciation - yes, there are such investors - are you this one?
c. Are you looking for an investment in a C/D neighborhood with lots of positive cash flow and some risk , may be hand it over to a good PM company and have another set of eyes looking at your property - yes, there are such investors - in fact I think this is where majority of the investors belong - are you this one?
d. Lastly, do you want a nice cash flowing property in a B+ neighborhood with very nice tenants and gives your yearly satisfactory appreciation - Well!! there is a long queue for this and you need to be in line and may be get lucky , its not 2009/2010
I am planning to get started in Charlotte sometime soon so good luck to you!!