Rent growth:  This has been flat to negative lately. 

These areas have more affordable properties compared to Boston and are showing signs of growth, especially with infrastructure and job opportunities increasing.

I look forward to fostering a growth in knowledge, understanding, and connection by utilizing the tools and resources provided through bigger pockets.Thank you for your time,Brian Luter

This is because there is a tight coupling between market appreciation and rent growth.  

Personally, we prefer multi-tenant, to minimize vacancy risk.   

The area has seen growth in both the residential and rental markets, making it a potentially lucrative investment.For financing, you can explore options like conventional loans, FHA loans (for owner-occupied properties), or even local programs that might offer lower down payments for investment properties.

The Birmingham market has been showing steady growth, with increasing demand for both single-family homes and multi-family properties.

Don't be discouraged by the lower returns—house hacking is often about long-term wealth-building, and your primary residence can offset some of those mediocre numbers.Make sure you're accounting for local trends and realistic rents—sometimes expected rent growth is overly optimistic, or costs like repairs might be underestimated.

Indianapolis is still experiencing population growth. 

I know thats a contradiction, but a matter of growth.