NJ is a big one—places like Newark, Paterson, or even smaller towns have better cash flow potential.

I understand they can make our life a lot easier but is it worth it if it eats up a lot of our cash flow? 

For newbies, I recommend starting with a turnkey cash flow rental.

For southern states, you might want to look at smaller markets in Alabama, Mississippi, or parts of Tennessee and Arkansas where properties are still affordable and cash flow potential exists.

Quote from @Duarte Marques: Hey BP community, I'm new to real estate investing and have been studying (reading books, watching webinars, constructing excel cash flow models,...) close to a year.

I would just be cautious, as there are some rough neighborhoods in both Akron and Cleveland that seem attractive due to the cash flow but will be money pits after the vandalism and vacancy. 

I cash flow them to buyers on lease options with a hefty option payment up front to me.

Currently cash flows.

With $100k down it’ll probably be slightly negative cash flow.

This could turn a potential loss into positive cash flow while protecting your property’s value.