Our plan was to rent it for 3-7 years, and then sell it, before a roof, HVAC, plumbing, or even much flooring was in need of replacement. 

Roof, plumbing, electrical upgrades? 

Mechanicals, roofs etc. can be towards the end of their useful life and pass inspection but then the cap ex can't be absorbed in many of these C/D neighborhoods.

Fortunately, all major capex are in great shape (roof: 5 years, AC: 3 years, siding: 6 years).I just wanted to say a big thank you to the BiggerPockets community! 

Crime is thru the roof, homelessness, high taxes, etc. 

You put on a new roof for $30K but the market won't pay you a $30K premium just because of it. 

Shed has collapsed roof.

Look for properties with updated roofs, electrical, and plumbing.

I am sorry that the storm that passed through just prior to your stay required emergency roof repairs. 

Albany, Syracuse, Utica, OH, PA, etc.) for cashflow.The challenge in these markets is that demand is through the roof, and many properties either sell at the asking price or above the asking price (Suffolk's sale price average was 1.5% ABOVE the asking price).If I were in your shoes, I'd explore local and remote multi-family options before considering the mid-term rental route.All the best!