I think it's very dependent on the property and market. 

If the only MFH options you're finding are in areas you're not comfortable with, it might be worth focusing on a duplex in a better neighborhood.Saving up for a larger property later is a valid approach too, but keep in mind that real estate tends to appreciate over time, and waiting might make it harder to enter the market later.

Fortunately for me, I started investing a time in the market where everything went up.  

Look at all the population growth, job growth, and companies moving/developing here - it's absolutely blowing up and Columbus is one of the hottest markets in the entire US. 

I would rather recommend being a maximum 3-4 hours drive from whatever market you decide to get into. 

There is a high concentration of those in Texas (about 2/3) but it is relatively similar in most of the markets we lend.

No one has a "crystal ball" to time the market perfectly. 

This property has a ton of deferred maintenance but I'm purchasing it well below market value and I have a decent budget. 

There are very few markets that cashflow with 100% leverage.

As leases expire and economic conditions shift, the city’s grocery market will likely continue to evolve.