I recently added new properties in a new city and posted a craigslist ad but got no response.

A month ago I added converted 1-bed and 2-bed listings to our platforms to help with weekdays.

I do think MT might see better activity, but also more owner involvement and the added intricasies of furnishings, etc, so if you're willing that might be the better route.

I see their ads pop on my social media and I think there are some scare tactics. 

Since the yard is already rough, I would keep the shed and see how it works out.Consider adding something to the lease that permits you to remove it from the property if it becomes problematic.

Continue renovating my current house--big projects would include finishing the basement (adding a bedroom/bathroom/living rm space) and putting new siding on (the current siding is probably the original).

so would I go tot he menu of bigger pockets and post a ad?

Adding 1-2 doors this year would be awesome. 

Quote from @Benjamin Bieber: Listening to the Bigger Pockets podcasts I hear the ads for rent to retirement all the time.

Of course the high crime statistics cannot be ignored in these cites, however I'm planning to buy only in the nicer/low crime neighborhoods which hopefully eliminates most of the crime risk.I was wondering if any of you could provide feedback on comparing these 3 cities.