But I also realize many people choose the direction of Appreciation first.In my hometown market (not Pittsburgh, but central NJ area), few small to mid size multi family properties could come close to cash flowing positively.

Investors should therefore exercise significant care when choosing their Qualified Intermediary because of the critical role the company will play in the administration of their 1031 Exchange transaction.It is extremely important to note that 1031 Exchange Qualified Intermediaries are generally not required to be licensed, regulated, audited or otherwise monitored by any regulatory body.

Ultimately, you should choose the option that best supports your financial well-being while striving to keep the relationship amicable.

PM companies are like business partners, so choose wisely!

If you are limited to those areas for residency, and you choose to keep that job, you are going to have to either a) wait for a couple years and save up a heftier down-payment, b) change your strategy like you said and go for houses further away (do flips, STR or BRRR).Or, if you are sold on the house-hack concept, at some point you might have to look at a different job that allows you to move where house-hacking will work....

However, if both are desirable and available in your market, I would definitely choose smaller multifamily (1-4 units) hands down. 

I choose Italy because I have a few advantages there.

I chose to invest with RTR with the intention of building a long term partnership, and wanted to grow my portfolio exclusively through them.

Unfortunately, this is the end result in many instances when purchasing in lower barrier markets whether through a turn key provider or on your own  and the question of who will buy this property when you choose to sell is rarely given the time it deserves. 

You find the numbers, and strategies that work in any specific market you choose, then wait until a property pops up that meats that criteria, and jump on it."