Hey Nathan, I've done a lot of business and leasing in Akron over the last 5 years and I think it's a great market. 

I'd prefer a small business.

In 2015, my sister had a business which was essentially her livelihood.

For example, for a business owner; they have no practical way to 1031 exchange.

The side moral to this story - be in the plumbing business.

No business succeeded by drilling many holes.

Rents are sky high in certain neighborhoods of Jersey City (we are second to NYC) as such many of the tenants are professionals with high income commuting to their jobs in NYC by ferry, 24 hour path train and bus. I

For instance, if you're in some of the well known markets that multi-family does very well in ( Boston, Columbus, Etc. ) , multifamily could be a great starting point for your investment business. 

Real estate is a learn as you go business.

@John Davey Interest on a home equity loan used to purchase or improve rental properties is deductible on Schedule E as a business expense, but not on Schedule A for your primary residence.