I don't believe there is a correct answer to your question because it depends on a lot of factors, one of which is where you are in life and what your goals are. 

Have you ever in your life made an investment?

My family and I had been looking for something like what we found for quite some time, targeting areas like Beachwood, Orange, Moreland Hills, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, etc. due to school systems and quality of life considerations... 

Not that he is cold hearted but at this point in his life these little properties are just business to him.

So I have units with more dishes then tenants.When my handyman is up on the roofs I tell him to always check for items that need water seal but mostly he does not (not the best handyman that we have ever had).I suspect the dishes significantly shorten the life of the roof and therefore result in increased cap ex.

Life is filled with this sort of ignorance and negativity.

Cashflow, Loan paydown, and Appreciation) throughout the life of the investmentWhich is better?

It's funny, I've grown up in REI all my life, and in a way that lead to me not appreciating the value of it as a business; but after 5 years of startup/corporate life my eyes finally opened to how powerful it is, thanks to my friend, @Ryan Mapes. 

Obama wrote The Audacity of Hope, you have just written The Audacity of Ignorance.Best of luck in life.

My plan is flexible and is open for modifications as I progress with my life.