1M seems low and I'd like umbrella, but appears I'm unable to get it as far as I'm aware.

You are correct in your assumption that it will impact how low they can go on the down payment, though, b/c commissions will need to be paid out of closing costs. 

It's tough to give a definitive answer without knowing your specific investment goals (cash flow, appreciation, etc.) and preferred strategies (BRRRR, wholesaling, etc.).However, since I'm a Cleveland native and active in the real estate market here, I can offer some insights on why Cleveland could be a good fit:Affordability: Compared to many other major metros, Cleveland offers a relatively low barrier to entry.

Also, there may be some tax benefits if they can qualify for federal funding based on low income. 

The short version is that you want a strong and diverse job market, low unemployment rates, a growing population, low vacancy rates and new development, affordability/cost of living, real estate laws and court system, good schools, and low crime.Check out the videos from Dave Meyers with BiggerPockets.

You could have just caught the right breeze, or the low rates might have given you a spurt.

Since competition is high and inventory is low on Long Island, I recommend BP members try to go direct to seller which is an active form of building an off-market deal list. 

•If jobless claims are low (below 210,000): The labor market remains strong, keeping the Fed in no rush to cut rates.

It’s a lower risk strategy since you’ll be living in one of the units, and you’ll qualify for low down payment loans.

It's no different than investors buying and negotiating low prices on distressed opportunities.