My wife and I are currently living in a SFH that we are rapidly out growing.  

This zip code has some EXTREMELY rough spots, but there are also other parts which have gone through very rapid gentrification.Equity: I did 35-100% - Should I have done higher equity?

Also, while I live in CT now, I'm originally from Michigan (I'm sure the last name gives away my Hollander roots) and there's a good chance we may be back in the Grand Rapids area.  

Demand for rentals is high, but supply is also growing rapidly - you wouldn't believe the number of new developments going up in Northwest Columbus, where I live. 

There are still plenty of B- or C buildings in these neighborhoods, which are improving rapidly. 

Not all nice houses make nice rentals because of poor cash flow, some do go up in value rapidly, some do not.

I am also local here in Grand Rapids.

Soon thereafter, though, we would like to grow rapidly and acquire apartments and commercial property, both here in California and out of state.While we feel sufficiently prepared to make our first investment, we are still soaking up the knowledge generously provided by this community and through local REI clubs.

Other parts of the city continue to see rapid growth.

You also might want to liquidate your expensive properties in Miami that do not cash flow since it is unlikely that such rapid appreciation will continue for ever.