The price points are still affordable - around $120k-$180k, plus the laws are super landlord-friendly. 

It tends to hide marks better.Walls: Neutral tones like SW Repose Gray, Behr Swiss Coffee, or Moore Classic Gray are renter-friendly and modern.Trim and Doors: Use a crisp white like SW Extra White or Moore Chantilly Lace.Accent Walls: For a touch of style, consider an accent wall in soft blue-gray. 

Quote from @Dan Grove: Hi friends,I'm starting to build a portfolio of long term rentals using creative finance. 

The people are super friendly and enjoyable.

Families appreciate kid-friendly touches like board games or a Pack 'n Play, while pet owners love amenities like beds and bowls for their furry friends.

The energy in person is different for me, and I've made some of my best connections and friends at Chicago meetups.Here is a list of the Chicago event from BP: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a list of ALL THE CHICAGO MEETUPS that I am happy to share with you. 

Do you know the area very well or have family/friends that live in the area?

My friend @Julio Aguirre is doing quite a few flips on the south side of Chicago right now.  

https://www.meetup.com/dfw-flippers-and-funders/Also connecting to investor friendly local  realtors will help as they will themselves do flips as well

Have also done work in DC and Maryland and would say Virginia has significant benefits over DC and Maryland because it is more business friendly and jurisdictions are willing to work with not against developers on projects I mentioned as well as you mentioned With the federal government and government contractors not going away - area is great for investment.