@Max Bellino For smaller properties like your 2–4 unit multifamily buildings, an online cost segregation study is a quicker and more cost-effective option, providing sufficient accuracy for straightforward properties.

The reason why I ask is because that could determine what loan options are available to you (and interest rates). 

Financing & Loans: What are the best loan options for short-term rentals?

I think the economy has a number of diverse employment options, lower prices than King County while still being within driving distance.  

If house hacking isn't the best option for me, how would you recommend starting out to build up some investments.

We've done demos with all of the big name PMS options and are finding big gaps with all of them, mostly when it comes to payment processing.

Off-market deals give you control over pricing, terms, and creative financing options.

Buy-in is often more conducive than other more saturated markets and there's such a wide variety of options to choose from. 

Cleveland almost seems like the best option because of the affordability and rental demand, but worries me due to the high property taxes and lack of population and economic growth.

If everything checks out, they could be a solid option for your first investment deal.