Scranton area seems to be a lot more landlord friendly than New York is, and the numbers seem better as well, Section 8 seems appealing for the guaranteed income but I will definitely take that information under consideration as I’m looking to invest in the area. 

Make small talk, learn about them, show you are truly interested in them as a friend.

Check out FilePlace, where user-created forms are available for free.

Once you buy a few the deals start coming from all places you wouldn't expect.I met a business owner in town and became friends.

I made the layout more user friendly, added a whole wall of closets in the main bedroom, totally gutted kitchen and bath.

While I agree with all your points (especially the unconstitutional eviction moratorium), selling means you will a) get hit with huge capital gains taxes (my friend just sold his 5-unit and got hit with $150,000 tax bill), b) there is no place to invest the proceeds (stock market is too risky, banks are risky and pay really low interest), and c) you are too young and if you change your mind and want to purchase more investment properties, interest rates and prices are too high. 

Years ago, a friend of mine took on a similar challenge in an older neighborhood near Chicago..he opened up the top floor to create a master suite that felt less like a converted attic and more like a boutique hotel room.

Highlight the “family-friendly” perks, like extra beds, pet policies, and flexible terms.

For rentals, they can work well if the HOA is investor friendly and cash flow numbers make sense.Financing can also vary, so it’s worth checking lender requirements for condos (warrantable v non warrantable) versus SFRs

Overland Park, KS vs Kansas City, MO) Very landlord friendly, worst case eviction is usually 8 weeks + $500 + lost rent (cannot comment on individual cases and this is not legal advice) Large diverse metro area - variety of jobs, companies, people can have a career in KC.