I would not offer furnished rentals in lower income areas. 

I'm also considering Halethorpe because it's a good commuter location.Some people really like supporting the city in which case , northeast Baltimore would seem to the best place to buy a single family, in my opinion given the taxes situation and given that none of those areas are walkable I’d rather just be in the county and pay Lower taxes, and it’s not like northeast Baltimore is much that much cheaper than Baltimore county, hathorpe is mixed, arbutus is nice, I hate the housing stock there, would rather be in Catonsville if I was considering western Baltimore county. 

Question: Should I collateralize the loan (if using private or hard money), or rely on roll-over loans (to maximize the lower points and 3-4% rate)?

They will be able to update you on what you need to do to help fire proof your home, and if there are any other options to lower insurance like external fire sprinklers, sealing up, attic vents, defensible space, etc.

Lower risk of wrong product.    9.

.- Creative Financing Solutions:Options like subject-to deals, seller financing, and syndications can lower capital requirements and increase your purchasing power while providing flexibility for properties with complex financial situations.4.

It also did not have a pool like your property so that would probably lower the desirability as well.

This could reduce your help lower your taxable income if the investment aligns with your lifestyle goals.

These neighborhoods seem to fit my goals, especially with their lower crime rates and potential for growth.Do you think these are solid options, or would you recommend other neighborhoods in the Philadelphia area based on the price range and focus on appreciation?

You also need to consider that at a lower percentage of money down you will be paying a Mortgage Insurance Premium or MIP.