Long term Ive been looking close at Mesa.

Long story short, the nurse was supposed to extend another 3 months but there was a fight in the street with the neighbors across the street and the section 8 tenant got involved.

Everyone has been burned a time or two if you have been doing this long enough. 

I just don't see this as a good long term rental unless I am missing something.

If the money will be tied into a project long term, a higher rate on your heloc can really impact your overall payment on the property (fixed debt plus heloc).

I have 2 rental properties.The First is in Crestview FL with a long-term military tenant.Cashflows ~ $800 monthly.Mortgage is $180k.

Factor in costs such as:Property taxesInsuranceMaintenance and repairsProperty management feesVacancy periodsLong-Term Strategy:With plans to acquire multiple properties, develop a clear long-term strategy.

Also, how long did it take?

It is not  optimal for long term debt. 

Akron and Canton may cashflow a bit better but I personally don't see as much of long term growth in those cities.