Curb appeal, clean interiors  without carpet stains cracked tile , shaky toilets etc It does not take a lot of money to present a clean ready to rent product .Check on your competition to guide you

Is the curb appeal pleasing? 

My goal is to invest in more hands-on methods and with a background in construction/home remodeling and PR/marketing, BRRRR and flipping are most appealing to me.

I was searching on the MLS and the Belleville prices are quite appealing.

The time frame is as follows.1-Certified Letter to Tenants2-Filing at Court3-Court hearing 2-4 weeks after filing4-Tenant has 10 days to appeal. 5-Landlord must wait the 10 days and then File Writ of Possession6-Sheriff evicts about 1-2 week after receiving Writ of PossessionLet me know if I can be of any assistance.

Based on how I see things playing out, the transaction costs make a 1031 less appealing than straight up purchasing additional units. 

I would assume their more attractive and appealing....thoughts?

I have read a lot about those other markets and they seem to have a lot of appeal, however, to back @Eric P. the ability to come see your rental in Philly is a huge advantage.

Do You Use a Professional Photographer for Your Listing Photos or Shoot Them Yourself?

I think looking back, a 3/2 SFR is the best marketable rental. 3/1s are harder to appeal to a family with kids. 2 bedrooms don't command as much rent, but might cost incrementally more around the same as a 3 bedroom in acquisition.