Our primary objective is cash flow to fund early retirement.Thanks for any advice.

This really applies more to location than property design/features - generally unique in buildings is bad.

After listening to experts, the criteria a new investor looks for in a "first flip" house would be: Entry Level home with relatively standard design (cape, ranch, split, colonial as opposed to Modern or Unique) 3 Bedroom 1+ bath (I'd prefer 2 myself) in a neighborhood that has recently demonstrated positive activity where multiple sales are occurring with relatively short "days on market". 

Each situation is unique.  

I was one of the first HML that ventured to the mid west... so I have a unique perspective on this model..

I must of been good at what I did because I've received recognition for consistently achieving investors objectives and meeting NOI every month. etc... 

The synopsis addresses "black ice"/hidden ice, wet surfaces, steps, changes in elevation, uneven surfaces, clutter, objects on ground, lighting, code issues, etc. 

Object to as much as possible in the inspection objection.

Purchase price of real estate increases by the same amount the value currency decreases.This accomplishes the first objective of protecting buying power.

Pittsburgh is sort of unique because the bad areas are actually uniquely placed.