It seems like there are a lot of choices out there so I am looking for anything that can help me navigate making a decision. 

So, average cash flow is a product of the choices you make and the capital you have to deploy, as well as your lendability.I think what @Alecia Loveless wrote should be very helpful to you in terms of judging the money coming in, but it all depends on your location and investments.

The choice depends on your threshold of what hassle you are willing to put up with vs what expense is worth it to avoid the hassle. 

It’s a familiar debate, as Californians have faced this choice twice since 2018.Under the 2019 Tenant Protection Act, rent hikes have been capped at 10% per year or lower if inflation rates dictate.

@Tom Gimer  I bet Tom being an owner of a title company and an attorney might be able to assist or comment on this scenario..

That would be my choice if I exited out of Indiana.I'm not a huge fan of paying cash for properties since you're tying up a large amount on one property.

I bet realistically most people would stop there.

I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.

With builders offering in-house financing as low as 5.5% for investors/second home owners, and warranties on roofs and HVAC systems, I continue to support new construction as a solid choice for LTR buyers.

When starting out if real estate, you pretty much have no choice but to either join a team or join a large brokerage that offers hands on training.