From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re more focused on long-term appreciation and future benefits rather than immediate cash flow.

You'll want to make sure it cash flows each month.

I specialize in working with other investors to find great deals that meet their cash flow and appreciation goals.

So the idea of doing this all from afar is a bit daunting, however, I know the most important thing here will be to create a great team and outsource as much as possible.I have set my sights on a couple of different markets being in the Southeast and the Midwest; these markets seem to provide the cash flow I am initially interested in generating to value add to the properties I purchase.

Quote from @Timothy Hero: Sorry if this was already asked, but what's an average return per year, in terms of cash flow?

After 45 + years as a real estate investor, broker, lender, fund manager and syndicator, I’ve become aware that the “dream” of many investors and investor “hopefuls” is to be able to generate enough cash flow to live off their real estate holdings and accumulate enough wealth to make “work” optional.

These are areas where you can cash flow in Columbus because the rent-to-price ratio is favorable.

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? 

Always smart to see the bigger picture and future cash flow potential!

I've narrowed down the best return for my money in this market to a 2 bed/2 bath (with top tier amenities) - about 500 total 2/2 listings.I'm finding myself a bit stuck when analyzing why certain properties are making so much higher than the average listings when they seem to have very similar locations, amenities, style, flow of home, beds/# of people they sleep, reviews, number of reviews, etc.