While I do maintain a relatively modest percentage of my assets in money market instruments, corporate debt funds, and high dividend stocks, I remain most comfortable with the investments I specialize in and know best.  

Fairmont is a good little market!

When you charge under market rent, the IRS deems that you do not have a profit motive and, therefore, disallows all rental expenses. 

Start by analyzing cash flow and market demand for each property to decide which one to rent out.

You really can't get a better snapshot of the Cleveland investment market right now. 

Spent a summer weekend hunting for on-market deals on days off with a realtor.

I have looked at other coastal markets that are less expensive than Charleston proper.

You would really want to do your own due diligence and probably fly to the market(s) you'd like to invest in.

Your focus on the Dallas market and Fix and Flip projects sounds solid, especially with the DIY approach and having an interior designer on your team. 

Every market can be invested in successfully.