This is the same advice I give, almost exactly, for people looking to do this type of renovation in the Tri-State area (NY, NJ & CT).

Peace of mind will comes from dealing with right deal and right people and right area, and not from high CoC returns. 20% CoC is not worth the headache it brings if deal or tenant or area turns out to be bad. 

However, like any investment, when you are familiar with the process, markets, people, etc., you learn how to mitigate that risk. 

On the other hand, if you want something simpler or closer to home, a single-family home might work better.Since you need more space for your growing family, consider looking for properties that offer both extra room and good investment potential.

< this is where most people get hung up. title is like the pink slip to the house. if you're not on title, you don't own anything. best of luck!

If you want to, you can see just how some people are customizing it for real estate by doing a search on Youtube for "Podio For Real Estate".

From the people I personally know living in some of these new apartments, they are almost at full capacity.

Shelly and I have always been driven to help people, especially those facing tough times.

I am a very hands on person and am picky about my own contractors/ repairs.

As an agent, I always want my clients to know what their properties are worth because (of course) I want to sell the properties, but I also like people to know the best tax strategies. 9 times out of 10, you are better off holding the property for a while to get increased appreciation, cash flow, better debt, more cash flow, etc.