Option 1.

The midwest has great options - Indiana, Michigan and Ohio has lots of great sub markets with good cash flow. 

Obviously the numbers and location would determine which is the best option for me but these would be my preferred methods. 

If they Counter, you have the same 3 options to respond. 

Albany, Syracuse, Utica, OH, PA, etc.) for cashflow.The challenge in these markets is that demand is through the roof, and many properties either sell at the asking price or above the asking price (Suffolk's sale price average was 1.5% ABOVE the asking price).If I were in your shoes, I'd explore local and remote multi-family options before considering the mid-term rental route.All the best!

I really like Lease to own option to get into deals without having to take on massive debt.

Going to try out PayRange, the Shine Pay is slightly more expensive and the one quote about the 20 units appears to be from shinepay as it is the only qoute they ever made... not sure which is better but both look like good options

If you can buy with 20 percent an hour away, as you said, that seems like the best option if the finances and numbers work for you.

I was their best option.

It sounds like you are in a nice spot where you have options moving forward with investing, (congrats).