Also, have visualized in achieving financial freedom through real estate is possible.

Hello all,I'm seeking advice on achieving a higher ROI in real estate investments beyond the 1% rule and maintaining around 35% of monthly operational expenses (including Cap-ex, maintenance, property tax, and vacancy).To the best of my knowledge and abilities, the 1% rule with 35% operational expenses seems to be the best I can achieve today.

If you intend d target a first time homebuyer and your current taxes are less than $6K then maybe you should sell. 

My target area is Minneapolis, MN (Lake Nokomis/Lake Hiawatha area).

Well, okay a bit of an exaggeration, but they are distinctly different skill sets.The problem is you believe you've already achieved and I'm not sure you could tolerate someone else being the brain of the operation.

My philosophy will likely be to target lesser desired areas that are still an easy commute to the Clay area which 481 goes through. 

Figure out who your "customer" would be and set everything up to target them.

I have been building relationships in my target market and underwriting deals.

What price range would you target on the next purchase? 

Decide on what you are trying to achieve and then determine if holding the house makes sense.