Well, this is a wonderful thread.All I can really contribute with enough experience to be absolutely sure of what I say: if you live on the coasts and your spreadsheet tells you your best passive returns over the long haul are going to be in the Rust Belt in cheap rentals, then your spreadsheet needs to be looked at by someone with a lot more experience in cheap Rust Belt rentals than you have.My own take on the musings here of why everyone wants to quit their job these day and its possible connection to young people and their participation trophies, their possible work-ethic failings, moral turpitude, contemptible world outlook, lack of grit, et hoc genus omne...yeah, I know I don't know squat about all that.

Renting both floors, if you decide to move, could further boost income.Film/Photography Location Rental: Atlanta’s film industry is booming, and many productions seek unique homes for short shoots.

I was thinking about trying it to maybe boost bookings for our Wisconsin property. 

Since repairs are essential, doing the HVAC and roof as cost-effectively as possible will boost rental value and make refinancing smoother.

Strategic, targeted renovations focusing on market appeal significantly boosted value and rental income.

If you’re aiming for a stable, hands-off income boost, this might be the way to go, especially with the cost being relatively low compared to other investments and being in an expensive market. 

With $750K, start by focusing on cash-flowing rental properties in stable markets like Indianapolis, Kansas City, or Birmingham, blending appreciation and income.Use financing strategically to scale while preserving liquidity for value-add opportunities like BRRRR or small multifamily properties.Allocate a portion of funds for flips or mobile home parks to diversify and boost capital.

The moral of the story is both auctions are public auctions conducted by the county, however those powers are vested in the county by Sheriff or Clerk.

Offering $450K would leave room to cover the $50K in repairs, and since market rents support a solid increase after updates, this could boost your long-term cash flow significantly.

Maybe look for a rental property that could boost your monthly income or even a tenant-occupied property to ensure cash flow right away.