If you're gonna spend your money in Cleveland on some cheap properties, you'll want to learn the ins and outs of all of the neighborhoods.

Real estate is not the stock market and it's called buy & hold and not buy & sell for a reason.I did sell a few properties about 10 years ago when I learned the hard way that going into cheaper neighborhoods was not the right strategy for me, so that was basically a strategy correction and it was necessary, but also costly both in terms of dollars and time.

Many investors start with a multifamily property, like a duplex, as living in one unit and renting out the other can offset your mortgage and reduce vacancy concerns.Take your time running the numbers and researching neighborhoods—you're off to a great start!

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

I went out with a realtor friend and searched neighborhoods I was familiar with.

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

I am hoping to make connections to learn more about this market, which neighborhoods to focus on, as well as learn some pro tips as I begin my investing journey.To note, I have begun the loan pre-approval process and have a dedicated agent that is eager to find me a great property. 

@Jared LeggettFrom my experience, house hacking in NYC is doable, but it often means looking into more affordable neighborhoods or smaller properties.

If you haven't already, try going off market, driving around neighborhoods that would be of interest to you and finding ones that fall into your criteria (your agent should be able to help you as well).

I went out with a realtor friend and searched neighborhoods I was familiar with.