I do have a third goal, but too much will happen by the time my second goal materializes that my third goal will likely change drastically.Also, I tend to find myself wanting to ask market-specific questions to agents/lenders/investors/contractors/etc. a lot.

Getting greedy tends to cause investors to be sloppy and I 100% agree with @Ken M. no good deed goes unpunished in all areas of life. 

On the other side, the bigger companies have more experience and their numbers tend to be more accurate (not always)... as they are big companies "their costumer service" and communication is better but at the same time they "have more mouths to feed" if we need to be honest so can get a bunch of ok or good deals but I kinda doubt they will be great (just my personal candid opinion).

The numbers tend to work better, and you’re still close enough to keep an eye on things.As for NYC itself, deals are definitely out there, but it’s tougher.

I am just a guy who tends to give illegal advice, I guess.And finally, folks need to be aware that while many travelers pick the nomadic lifestyle for some of the awesome reasons: travel, excitement, variety, some pick it to try and increase their income to a level where they can earn their way out of terrible financial situations or decision making.

I always asked first, and never had a landlord refuse.It drove me nuts that I had no idea how many copies of the keys to my current front door were floating around in the world.

They also benefit from strong schools, which can be a huge draw for long-term tenants.While you may not achieve high cash flow immediately in these areas, the property values and rents tend to appreciate steadily over time, aligning well with your goals.

The area is relatively stable, and the housing market tends to be less volatile. 

(FYI - I tend to use the interest only structures first).

I tend to go with 3b2ba's and I get about $1500 a month minimum.