I do not judge anyone that sees a high projected return and becomes interested.  

We also tell them that we charge $25 per hole for TV mounts, shelves etc I think that $10 up-front investment has reduced the number of issues by probably 80%.Our walls are textured (sand textured in Milwaukee, orange peel textured in the western suburbs - yes, there is an actual dividing line), so we try to avoid the usual palm-sized patch and fill only the hole without making it bigger, so we can get away without texturing.

Are their listings detailed with good-quality photos?

Usually the numbers don't work to build in these neighborhoods, unless government tax credits, etc.Do you see the problem with your two statements:"The turnover costs could/will be high"and"How much more damage could they do?"

My wheelehouse is long term management of investment properties, but I do have a good relationship with a loca Chattanooga broker who helps investors in the area.

Even though interest rates are high, we have a big Mircron plant coming here as part of the CHIPS act so that could boost housing demand in the coming years.I don't know the SYR market, but I did a quick search for duplexes somewhat outside of the city, and found this: https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/7300-Lakes....

However, with high rates, the next mortgage would be very expensive, and a vacancy would be intensely expensive with two mortgages.

Buy a quality property, stay away from the hood, rehab it as if you would move in, take your time picking a tenant, you'll be find.

@Duarte MarquesPossibly but highly not recommendedFor those with no real estate experience or experience in taking on debt, it’s not easyTo do it also with little to no down payment or reserves in most occasions will end in disasterReminds me of when in high school a friend used to let his dog drive his car.

In answering the where to live question, things about the quality of life things that are important to you and work backwards from there.