and San Bernadino seems like a contender.

He contends that no fees should apply since I'll be making more money in the long run and that we should just get an appraisal, minus the mortgage debt and then divide by 2. 

Pittsburgh is a strong contender for what you are looking for as long as you choose the neighborhoods wisely. 

I agree going about it on your own with a small brokerage is likely not going to end well but would also contend that needing office space (dependent on your exact business model) is rarely applicable these days.

So would it really make sense to invest in a 10 unit complex making $100/per door cashflow a month ($1000 total per month, $12k a year), but you have to contend with 10 tenants? 

I recommend you do some research and call your top contenders before making a decision. 

Not sure- but that sounds like the biggest PITA to contend with. 

It might have passed and you might then have to contend with even higher prices going forward.

Looks like the big contenders are Cleveland and Columbus.. any recommendations or advice you have that would aid in my decision making would be greatly appreciated.Also looking to get recommendations on real estate agents with expertise in investing in these areasThank you for the help!

. - There’s nature to contend with (mold, termites, hurricanes, flooding, sun damage).