Cleveland, Baltimore, Toledo, Indy etc....You will see net population decreases in most of these areas but these are the areas where the prices are the lowest in the USA and come with rents that are very high when compared to the sales price.

To create rental income that enables financial freedom, you need a location that meets specific criteria.Rents increase faster than inflation: Prices and rents are driven by the imbalance between demand and supply.

You will be paying 6-10% for just having them collect rent. 

I'd sell because you are reaching the time when you lose the cap gains exemption and that $24K would take over 2 years of renting to get back.I had a condo that I owned for a long time and I sold it despite it being paid off and having long term tenants. 

If you buy good properties in good locations you can do fine in Buffalo. 

In NY tenants have to give 30 days notice before they move out to give me time to rent out the apartment again.

When rent is too low it speeds up the leasing.   

For those of you who have used virtual tours in your listing's have you seen a difference in how quickly properties sell or rent?

Was it difficult collecting rent as a landlord, during 2-hour long gas lines? 

   #9  SWEETEN the POT:    Do not think that paying extra rent is going to entice owners to rent to you.