Specifically from the Caged AC Unit into the attic (concrete slab so no crawl space).I was thinking of just building a tall vertical box to place this into.  

It’s a little more work to set up, but if you get a solid property manager, it’s not as scary as it sounds.If I were you, I’d keep digging into the Capitol region, NJ, and CT—compare the numbers, and maybe even start building connections with agents or wholesalers in those areas.

Seems like it'd be lower maintenance since it's a new build and in a nice area.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

Also, don’t sleep on building relationships with local realtors who specialize in investments.

However, they didn't insulate that building well so in winter residents consistently get heating bills over $200/mo. 

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

Banks need for them to build recognized credit before doing an FHA type loan.

It's a business - acquiring/building, managing, and growing a business. 

But success depends on choosing the right cities and building an experienced and reliable local team.