I would recommend you find another independent brokerage in the GTA and ask them for the pros and cons. 

For that reason, have you considered Raytown, Independence (either Raytown or Fort Osage schools), Grandview, Belton, and further out? 

We focus on the suburbs outside of the 435 loop such as Independence, Raytown, South Kansas City and Grandview.

Is there an independent data clearinghouse out there somewhere?

The bookstore has some great books and the podcast is full of valuable information.Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastSee here for the Guides: BP GuidesSee here for the FREE video series: The Financial Independence BlueprintSee here for the blog: The BiggerPockets BlogSearch MeetUp.com for local meetups.Good luck to you and Happy Investing!

If you otherwise have a very strong income and don't need the money then I suppose properties with no cash flow can work in high appreciation areas, but that's a risky game if you aren't independently wealthy enough to eat that year over year. 

My long term goal is to own rental properties in order to hit my financial independence goal, so I feel BRRRR might be the best route, but I also see where the argument could be made for using flips until I am ready to understand how to evaluate a BRRRR deal.If anyone has any ideas of what I should focus on first please feel free to reach out to me!

J Scott has a great tip in a book of his to go to Lowes or HD in the early morning to recruit independent contractors becaise those are the guys that have work lined up and not lacking work.I comp all my ideas but just get the commision. 

You would want to reach out to an independent agent who able to help you because they have access several insurance companies that have a different appetites that will fit your property.  

@Daniel Lehrman - I agree with what @Denny Robert suggested with going independent (depending on your FINRA licensing and designations).