“ cash flow returns” almost always compare horribly to a simple bank CD after you deduct for insurance, prop taxes< vacancy, capex, prop management (or your personal time.) etc etc etc. 

So it can be good for cash flow and building in tighter spaces but it is less of a equity play in today's market if you're looking to sell right away

He abandoned trying to scale.Learning from this experience when my partner and I decided we wanted to double our net income, we realized it would take a increase of 2 1/2 time our volume and probably need to triple our deal flow.  

My goal is to continue to acquire more cash flowing rentals to eventually leave my day job and just self manage the rental properties. 

However, the studio unit was only rented for $800, which is affecting the overall cash flow.

Helps with your debt to income, better opportunities at cash flow, and typically requires less down to purchase.In regards to challenges, I usually build in an extra 10-15% to deal with things that I can't see behind the walls, including dry rot, electrical or plumbing issues, etc.

There is a case for buying well-located solid assets that produce immediate current cash flow at reasonable leverage. 

That said, it’s been a great market for me—strong cash flow, significant appreciation, and plenty of opportunity for investors who take the time to understand the market’s nuances.If you decide to explore Detroit further, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to share insights and what I’ve learned along the way.Good luck on your investing journey!

Obviously, cash flow would have to be such that you could absorb a salary, but it seems it might be better to have someone trained by the owner who is present for everyone in the building as necessary.Thank you all for your thoughts!

IMO outside of a few small markets in the southeast the midwest is the only region in the U.S right now where you can purchase property with leverage and still expect a reasonable cash flow.