“ cash flow returns” almost always compare horribly to a simple bank CD after you deduct for insurance, prop taxes< vacancy, capex, prop management (or your personal time.) etc etc etc. 

I would just be cautious, as there are some rough neighborhoods in both Akron and Cleveland that seem attractive due to the cash flow but will be money pits after the vandalism and vacancy. 

I use 10% for maintenance & cap ex, 8% for vacancy (but not on STR because the estimate from Airdna includes vacancy), 10% for management.

. - low vacancy.  

For the mixed-use building idea, you’re right to be cautious about vacancies as a remote investor.

Aside from downpayment, you want to have a solid emergency fund in place, something that can cover unexpected repairs, vacancies, or any other random costs that pop up.I’d also recommend saving more than you think you'll need and keeping a close eye on your expenses.

However, i want to address placing a tenant.My market has a low vacancy rate.  

To continue with the 8-unit example, you again end up spending many multiples of these costs to build a comparable portfolio of single family properties.Another disadvantage of single family properties is that there is only one tenant per building and if they stop paying or if there is a vacancy, the entire cost of that property is on you and your wallet until you can fill that vacancy and get the rent coming in again.

In the event of vacancy, they will work to market your property for the next tenant. 

Nothing to get crazy about but no need to deal with tenants, property taxes, repairs, vacancies, etc. just sit back and collect.