I assume there is zero or almost zero appreciation and that’s the reason you aren’t selling tax free?

I would allow for differences of opinions that are amicable, and even sometimes heated, as long as names and profanities aren't used.

However these aren't neighborhoods where you can use a zip code analysis like many other Philadelphia zips.

Those are spray and pray techniques that don't fit with sellers right now because sellers/owners are sitting on a very low rate and don't want to move to go up 4-5 points on their rate.Listings aren't a start now thing as well.

I feel that there aren't many courses due to areas of the county being different.

Unless you have the rentals paid for by the time you retire, they aren't going to be enough to live off of. 

The entirety of these cities aren't just comprised of cheap run down properties. 

Even still, it could be said that I've still lost money due to my time on the tools instead of prospecting as a real estate agent (the cost of lost opportunity).If you can truly do 80%-90% of the work yourself (at acceptable quality levels) and you aren't sacrificing your time where you can get better returns for your efforts, then yes, it can work even up here in Canada.

Some thoughts to consider:If you sell now, you are unlikely to pay capital gains taxes as your first 250k (500k if married and filling jointly) aren't reported.Doing your first rental remotely is undesirable without 1.)

I've seen some lenders offer as low as 15% down on an investment property but the terms they'll impose for doing so aren't usually worth it imo.