If it's unrealistic to have this goal, I'd love some input to get a bare bones starter single family home. 

I have nothing to gain to tell you to what I am going to say, so please take as my advice from the bottom of my heart to help you become successful. 

Danko- "The Undoing Project" - Michael LewisOverall, my main concern is the numbers talked about for some of the American markets seem unrealistic here in Ottawa, even relative to the surrounding smaller towns.

@Lexi Teifke I have always said that HEB is the most successful real estate investor, and just happens to sell groceries!

More success @Melissa McRay Johnson

I wish everyone great success!

I wish you great success and if you have any questions you can reach out to me.

Likely would be quite costly initially as they would have to convert all the zones to one furnace versus the two per building along with converting the furnace itself, but much cleaner and less of a hassle in the long run.One thing I have had  success with is getting rid of a furnace completely and putting individual propane wall units in each apartment.  

I've only used investor carrot with major success.

That will probably be a key to your success...finding the solid base hits and investing for the long term.