For example, in the New York area, especially in some hyped-up fringe neighborhoods (like certain areas of the Bronx, Queens, or Staten Island), finding a "bargain" seems easy.

I imagine his partner Amy will blame him when the SEC comes knocking.

the midwest has lower price points than other areas of the US, sure, but it also comes with its own challenges - for example, very old housing stock, lots of deferred maintenance, and tremendous demand for the best properties."

Looking to start a granite and counter top business and was wondering if anyone has done this?

I would start by finding areas you actually WANT to live and go from there.Picking a place to call home simply because it has a real estate market that you feel will fit your goals is a great way to end up miserable. 

How did you come to have expertise in the eviction rate in NJ?

State up front you're a Coach in your post, then the obvious answer is yes from your perspective. 

Between the equity on the condo and the extra cash you have, you can purchase 2-3 homes. 

Simply put the risk of a non-renewal costs more.

And this is coming from someone who has done that.