The key is ALWAYS let the numbers make the decision.  

The lack of control over annual costs are a risk that I am not particularly comfortable with.That being said, if you are good with condo investing, I would probably base my decision on the degree of control that buying 8 units in one building gives you. i.e., if it's a small complex and 8 units gives you ~50% control, I would probably go for that.

I really do not deal with credit and I was not egen thinming a ouyvit beog a part of her decision.

I urge you to consider all factors before making an informed decision.

Then approach the decisions about your property through the lens that you have created. 

I was curious, however, as to the factors that influenced your decision to invest out of the local area, especially doing flips which seems really tricky from a distance. 

Hello GeorgeI congratulate you for even being in a position to think about purchasing an investment property but I think you would benefit more both short and long term if you improved your existing situation before you pulled the trigger on any type of purchase.First of all, your 600 FICO will make your decision as to which type of loan you want to proceed with a lot easier than you think.

Ultimately the choice is yours, you have gut instincts and have met them... a poll on bp might not be the best business decision :) 

I just don't want my first buy and hold property to be a bad decision.

Yup, but it helps.It is a simple decision, but has to be based on your own internal needs and desires.