New construction may be an option, many builders are offering rate buy downs and closing cost assistance and then you get quicker appreciation when they continue to build out the community.

Thanks for the input @Russell Brazil, I'll definitely keep that in mind, as I would really like my place to appreciate over time, even if it's a little bit. 

Andy,I am more or less breaking even on the rental and am concerned that I would not be cash flow positive if the rate goes higher, since it's a variable rate. 

Even if you met those requirements, it doesn't sound like you have any experience and you could put her in a worse position by making a mistake. 

My primary question is: Should I focus on buying a multifamily property and growing slowly to build a stable financial foundation, even though my area would have minimal cash flow and be more of an appreciation play?

But, regardless, it does little to assist with bring in clients.

If it is paint, inside, perhaps but even then they pay rent and you pay them for the work they do.

Share your thoughts, experiences, or even strategies in the comments section below; then let's get this conversation rolling and make a lot of cash registers ring too!

Let me know if I can be of further assistance. 

If every month I give a percentage to a managing agent, I am fine, as long as I see long term growth, even pair gains for the first 6 months and then start growing.