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

Based on the development expected over the next decade, I believe it's a great area to invest in. 

I know what my ideal life looks like in ten years, unfortunately, I don’t feel like I can have my ideal life now because I am having to stay in the state that I am in until we can move without risk of my husband losing custody of his child, which will be in about 10 years so believe it or not I do spend a lot of time thinking about what I want the future to be like.

I am not a member in any "gurus" programs nor am I foolish enough to believe that the whole picture is provided by these gurus.

I believe the owners with the majority ownership share forced the others to sell, but they weren’t cooperating. 

And I believe Cape Fear does some as well. 

That is your competition.I believe my recommendation will prove accurate.  

And, in my opinion, more importantly, the lurkers who never comment, now believe they have the "golden key" of information.As you already know, there is so much more to this, in order to stay out of trouble over the long term. 

You believe in it. 

Trust me, I have been there.I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...Goodluck and keep us posted.