However, a bit of everything will open up more doors and has the ability to appeal to a wider niche of folks.I wish you success!

I can also help other investors with design and selecting materials that are cost effective but still look beautiful and appeal to the masses.  

Overall the property cash flows about $500 but I recently got the taxes appealed so it will cash flow another $150.

To actually visualize our future together, holistically, what most people call : LIFE STYLE. that will include you, your spouce, your minds, your bodies, your location, your time, the stuff you have, the people around you,the rest of the worldwhat are ALL the relationship between these elements?? 

I curiously looked at Milwaukee and the prices seem way cheaper although most of the multiunit housing doesn't look at great visually.

Modesto is finally seeing the recovery the rest of the state has been enjoying for years, so the price-to-rent rations "at home" are no longer so appealing. 

Of course the options from @Jassem A. are the most appealing, but that's great advice @Josh Mitchell.

Particularly interested in folks investing in the lower-growth counties: What makes it so appealing?

Don't underestimate the power of curb appeal.  

It's the best part for a visual creative type in this industry.