I can see why you'd get good cash flow! 

Make sure your first rental cash flows well by running the numbers as if you were buying it today.

Rates were still extremely low, which made both properties extremely lucrative with cash flow.

Quote from @Brendan Jones: I am very new to learning about real estate and am looking for advice on my first home and how I can best use it to help offset my mortgage and generate cash flow.

I personally walked and researched every property prior to investing to understand what I was buying, what could be done to add value and what I should expect in cash flow and appreciation.Learning what makes a good investment for you is absolutely necessary. 

Let's of NYC investors look at other cities in NY, Rochester, Buffalo, etc... they can drive to them to see them, and they know the state well enough to feel comfortable.Most of the rust belt cities in NY offer cash flow as well. 

For expansion, innovation, or simply covering cash flow during slow periods, access to capital is often a barrier.

Properties like the Michigan complex offer a unique entry point, combining cash flow and significant upside potential.Immediate Cash FlowThis particular property is projected to deliver 6% annual cash flow from day one, already exceeding the yield of Treasuries.Value-Add RenovationsThe property includes hundreds of units that can be upgraded to Class A finishes, justifying rent increases.

There will be different areas that are better or worse depending on whether you're in search of cash flow or appreciation. 

Cash flow great.