I'll throw in my 2 cents on common differences I've seen in my career:CDFIs - Because of their subsidized financing structure, they have the ability to be a low cost lender (and sometimes provide grants).

My ideal location would currently actually be Augusta, GA because I really want to start somewhere with a very low crime rate. 

Bought house in 2020, so instant cash flow given the low rate and price.

It makes less and less sense in a market with low inventory and high interest rates.

If you want low, safe returns that are truly passive, invest in the stock market.  

It is harder to find good information if the forum is cluttered with low value information. 

The appraiser gave the house a low score so the bank said it is a risky investment for them and gave me a 70% loan.

Don't be afraid to go low Sunday through Thursday to get some activlty.We use Pricelabs, but only as a tool; I have to override it continuously.

I think they contain solid information and will help lay a good foundation as a beginner (Haha, I'm completely new to real estate as well, btw)I'm also going to be reading the following books, and hopefully I can finish all by the end of this month:1) The ABCs of Property Management2) The Advanced Guide to Real Estate Investing3) Long-Distance Real Estate Investing How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties (this might be the most important one to me personally)4) The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money DownIn addition to reading, I'm consuming crazy amounts of youtube videos, and I'recommend you do this as well.

Fairlawn is a bit more expensive and there's really low inventory in that area but Cuyahoga Falls is also a nicer suburb in Akron that does really good with rentals.