@Cory Prior There are ways of doing low-money down strategies.  

Look for properties with low taxes, separate utilities, strong demand, and potential for rent increases.

This way on a $300,000 purchase you only need $10,500-,15,000 for your down payment which if you maintain a low cost of living is very achievable every 12-15 months.

You've earned $132,000 more by splitting your money and leveraging it.Since I've been searching for more deals I have seen one or two that might actually cash flow decently but most seem to be at break even assuming normal expenses, vacancies, etc.I'm just learning my comfort levels with leveraging and trying to take advice from others about managing multiple low cash flow properties vs. one higher value one. 

I mostly work in low to moderate income areas anyway so it checks all those other boxes.

Note: I'll caveat: I believe that other factors should be considered when analyzing the market as well (i.e. economic growth/stability, low crime rate, affordability, etc.)

Although the market is a low cash flow market due to its very low risk being so close to Washington D.C., long-term holders who participate in the upcoming rent increases and leveraged home price appreciation will see a strong opportunity to create Alpha in the market.Deep Dive into the Developments.As you will see, there are many different amazing sub-markets in Alexandria to invest in right now.

Is it wise to buy some units with high cash flow and low appreciation, and others with lower cash flow but high appreciation to diversify my portfolio?  

Population growth, job diversity, and low DOM (days on market) are significant indicators.

I bought the cheap lowes light blocking blinds.