I would recommend looking into out of state investing in a much more affordable city like Columbus Ohio!

Smaller group, more affordable, and very interactive.

Columbus is a super affordable real estate market where you can still find deals that hit the 1% rule anywhere from $120-180k purchase price.

Talk to the lenders first how much you can afford to get loans.

That gives you a sense of housing affordability threshold.  

I was potentially interested in either a vacation rental down the shore, or potentially long term rental in an nyc commuting area, depending on pricing.Or out of state which could be more  affordable option.

Sullivan shares data on America’s Affordable Housing Crisis.

Currently there is plastic sheeting covering the hole in the ceiling, about 4'x4'. 

Which is why it’s generally better to own fewer but better properties in areas that are desirable VS owning many “affordable” (undesirable) crapboxes in the Midwest.

If they cannot afford to live there, they can't afford to stay there.