Focus on duplexes, they cash flow better and you will have far less stress if we experience an economic downturn.  

I say that because not only does KC have have strong cash flow, it also has solid economic and demographic trends.

Volatility and risk in the product type coupled with an economic slowdown... investors just aren't and won't be looking to place capital in the retail sector when other areas like multifamily and office remain hot. 

I buy for cashflow because appreciation doesn’t pay the bills and in a economic crisis that 300k house can't sell for 200k while the bills stack up  .

The most important thing is having enough cash reserves to weather a economic downturn and to ensure your properties are only 60% leveraged.Perhaps make a post asking if there are any investors here that speak your native language and see if they can help fill in details. :)

Cars are a losing proposition from day one so from a financial point of view the best you can do is the cheapest, most economical car you can get in terms of cost per mile (ownership+repairs+maintenance).

This worries me for two reasons: one, the cost to rehab and the scarcity of good subs, and two, the fact that if you have a high cost of entry and hold for five years, in an economic downturn you might see your ROI slip from 10% to 5%. 

Need to make sure that the furnace still has the proper clearances and venting.Probably a good idea to get a quote from a plumber and find out their best economical solution to the issue. 

I really do suggest that people try to understand Economics and how Government Policies affect various industries.

I haven't really looked into Alberta because of the economic downturn there but maybe it's a good opportunity because of that.