Because MTR is a unique hybrid somewhere between LTR and STR, I haven't found an easy way to get a rent estimate.

NJ investor myself - happy to help you navigate these unique waters! 

Every home and neighborhood is unique and buyers have a lot to think about!  

One of my rental properties is located in a low-income area, which presents unique challenges in finding suitable tenants.

My first MF I represented the buyer on I made 100k. for maybe a weeks worth of work. 3. if your going to be looking a more resi style duplex 4 plex a lot of those get listed and having access to the MLS is far superior to any other on line listing service ONE simply because you will be able to talk to the actual LIsting agent not someone paying for leads.And then of course having access to MLS lock box's and not relying on agents.. this is huge.Now if your maybe going to buy one property sometime in the future and you have no interest in learning the RE laws of your state or making any money with transactional real estate then sure.. its a pass.. although I would still recommend the pre license course so you learn the basics  the vocabulary and states unique laws.. knowledge is power in RE.

Malls are uniquely designed so hard to use the existing structure for something else. 

I really admire that you've focused on such a unique niche that doesn't get much attention.

Exploring AZ, TX, OH, and FL makes a lot of sense—those markets are active, and Florida, in particular, could offer unique opportunities with properties affected by recent hurricanes.

If money were no object, do you have a specific property (whether it's for sale or not) and address that would be an ideal first investment for you?

Austin is a unique beast in itself, and many property owners have an overly inflated perception of their property's value.When I flipped a property in Austin, I sourced it through a New Western agent.