Thus, we are looking into the Johnson City-Elizabethton area or the Kingsport-Bristol area.

And neither will City of Rockville.

(Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Michigian).Pick a more rural town/city, they are typically very safe.

I have family in Kansas City, MO area so I thought that would be a good place to start since I could visit properties while visiting family.

I’m a New York City native, but purchasing any type of real estate in this area is not realistic for me. 

You also mentioned meters, do you have to separate meters, get approval from the city and pull permits?

I'd look at that as well as the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Ordinance, which every Pa township, borough or city has, or if they don't have those docs, they are covered by the county codes.

Quote from @Hedman Maximus: I’m thinking about 1031 exchange , the town is a sleepy town , the same contractors and good tenants don’t last that long Where would you look (what city) to do the 1031, NYC?

I guess my next question is, why Kansas City? 

Having lived in IN for 8 years before moving to Austin TX, I believe this city offers great opportunity now and much potential.