@Anthony DiSanzowhy not stay within driving distance to be hands-on? 

That would totally drive me crazy.

As far as investing out of state goes, I would pick something you can drive to in 4 hrs or less.

The kitchen counter laminate was also very dated looking. 

A fourplex means four times the appliances, plumbing, HVAC, water heater, and other repairs, driving up maintenance expenses compared to a single family.In Las Vegas, multi-family properties attract transient tenants, like singles or couples without children, who typically stay 1 to 2 years.

I prefer buying the materials (I get a military or contractor discount wherever I go) to sitting at the counter waiting on a call.

I consul them to always include a street view of the property, from across the street, showing the entire house in situ, in order to answer the question for the guests (who have never been there before): "What are we looking for as we drive down the street" My 2 cents,Mike

These markets tend to attract a lot of investor activity, which can drive prices up, leading local homeowners to take on more debt to afford homes in their area."

Drive for dollars in all of the multifamily areas, especially closest to you.

Just look around on the roadway as you drive.