You want lower land cost with high rental demand unless you're a reno expert and flipper which not 1% of real investors are. 

It’s flexible—you can invest in rentals, commercial properties, or syndications—but managing it requires careful attention to avoid prohibited transactions.In comparison, a SEP IRA offers tax-deferred growth, which might be better if you expect a lower tax rate in retirement, but it doesn’t avoid UDFI tax on leveraged properties or allow borrowing.Before investing, check if SDIRA Wealth aligns with your goals and review their track record.

A $45 application fee will apply.Income: Verified monthly income must be at least three times the rent (minimum $4,200 combined).Credit Score: A credit score of 650 or higher is required.Eviction History: No prior evictions are permitted.Should I lower it to a credit score of 600 and 2.5 times the rent? 

Here's a breakdown to consider:Cleveland: @Zeke Liston You're right, Cleveland often boasts lower purchase prices, making entry easier.

I prefer to stay further from the coast and hopefully further from major storm/flooding events (potentially lower insurance costs).  

Examine the bottom half from every angle - how much you can make, what else you can get for your money (don't worry about how much you make on these, they are time suck and the lower half of your portfolio)That's a good place to start.

The lower the price the more I would be willing to do some fixing up.

We discovered problems that required a lot of work and significantly reduced the property’s value, forcing me to lower the price.

There are plenty out there with fair rates and lower fees.

Going direct saves you and the seller money, giving you a lower cost to entry which helps all your numbers, but you have to put in the extra work to find that deal.