With having young kids and working full time, being able to buy a house that needs mostly cosmetic updates that I can do myself would be easier than buying a property I would have to travel to without the family to work on. 

I am a real estate investor that just moved to Columbus from Miami looking to buy my second property within the next year.

Looking at buying my next multifamily in the next several months.

One should buy out the interests of the other.

Quote from @Daniel Becker: Don't get buried in the weeds. 30 years ago, people invested by saving money, buying a house they liked, and holding onto it for decades.

Im trying to decide if flipping a home or buying a rental property is the best option for my first investment.

To make an informed decision, consider these essential steps:Seek out a Certified Cost Segregation ProfessionalConsider their experience with tangible property regulations.

So I am looking for information on what to use as the base/patio material. 

The best action you can take is to not buy in Cleveland or Columbus.

Transitioning from one field to another can be daunting, but you've come to the right place to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded people.It's awesome that you've already dived into some real estate reading; that curiosity and willingness to absorb information will definitely help you as you figure out your next steps.