Here are pockets I focus on for cash flow:West side - West boulevard, Cudell, Clark-Fulton, Jefferson, Bellaire-Puritas, Old BrooklynEast side - Fairfax, Buckeye-Shaker (the north side), Waterloo Arts District, Garfield Heights, Maple Heights, Newburgh Heights, Lee-Miles (the north side), BedfordHere are the areas that I focus on for appreciation:West side - Lakewood, Edgewater, Old Brooklyn, Ohio City, Tremont (above 490)East side - Buckeye-Shaker (the north side), Waterloo Arts District, Fairfax*I have a graded neighborhood map of these areas as well if you would like to check it out.  

The person checking the unit just said needs replacing so we did but it did not solve the issue. $6000 repair. 

It sounds like the best approach is to always check multiple places for rates?

Check out Russellville, Harrison, or better yet Conway.

Am I overlooking more affordable markets that are close by that I CAN house hack in?

You might check with a local attorney on this.In NY where I am, the period is 10 years.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

I was just about to get my credit card info for the course, when I thought to check BP forums.

In my state the standard contract used by realtors addresses this issue by allowing the agent to check a box specifically to limit the seller to keeping the EMD as opposed to going after "liquidated damages" like that.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts!