For more risk but more potential growth I would view places in Brooklyn and Queens. 

Or you can house hack in Westchester/the Bronx/Queens/Brooklyn (the last two might be too expensive).  

I was born in Brooklyn and grew up on LI. 

., trying to remain Detroit instead of becoming a Brooklyn).

I'm originally from Northern New Jersey but now residing in Brooklyn New York.

Luckily, I was able to purchase a condo in a new development in Brooklyn in 2011, with my mom lending me a significant about of the down payment, which I still own and live in w/ a roommate. 

I may be able to get a large room at the Marriot off of 694 and Boone in Brooklyn Park.

But what I can't seem to find out is what % range of the ARV investors in Queens and Brooklyn are buying at.

Given the gentrification of many areas close to NYC (parts of brooklyn, queens, jersey, harlem) - this is part cash flow play and part appreciation. plus it's hard to find anything within 30 min of NYC at $125K a unit.

At the end of the day we only have so much time and so many resources, I would not pigeon hole yourself into a plan when you may find something else may be better.Separately - my office is in Brooklyn Park off hwy 694 and Boone if you would like to stop by and discuss real estate investing or the finance/accounting career paths.John Woodrich, CPA