Since I can’t afford to pay cash for a home here in North Carolina, pay cash for a home in places like Detroit, Alabama, or Ohio.

There is much to learn: pricing, marketing, screening, contract law, lease enforcement, late/unpaid rent, property abandonment, squatters, maintenance, tenant neglect or abuse, communication, and 417 other things.Buying a decent property but not managing it well can impact your finances, marriage, sanity, physical health, and desire to invest.

I am only 36 years old so I can afford to wait and hold.  

Negotiate seller concessions, consider affordable markets, and focus on long-term equity growth through appreciation and loan paydown.

The prices are still really affordable compared to other cities, but you get solid rental income potential.

I'm waiting to see how much I can afford to pin point a area but I would love to get something in the Marietta/Kennesaw Area.

Most small time investors can't afford the risk to buy and hold a property that doesn't make money in HOPES that it appreciates enough.

All the markets you mentioned are solid choices for affordability and long-term growth potential.If you’re looking to narrow it down, consider Indianapolis or Columbia, SC, as both have strong rental demand, landlord-friendly laws, and stable economies.

There is no lack of affordable homes.

My partner and I are very interested in single family homes, As we enter into a volatile real estate market we are focused on families and creating wealth through selling affordable homes.