The less sophisticated comments tend to focus on either return maximization or risk aversion, only.

To maximize....live in the unit that will bring the least amount of rent.Please post an update when you get the ball rolling- pretty exciting stuff!

Nobody maximizes the return on every cent. 

I would be look for high yields to offset the risk if I were to buy there. 

I still like my NWI properties and will keep them, but there are certainly days where I wish I would've just coughed up more money to invest in nice Chicago neighborhoods, which would've yielded better tenants, better cash flow, better appreciation potential, even despite the higher taxes. 

I'm a self starter and looking to use my equity to get a few rental properties and need some strategic help to maximize and invest my equity. 

Where else could I invest with low money down (that would yield consistent rent profit - or wholesale)  or what are my options?

Trying to keep it budget friendly while still maximizing value.

@Jerry Sanders forget the 2% rule, put together a pro forma of your own that uses actual expenses,  yields a cap rate,  and spits out a cash on cash return once you apply the appropriate loan terms. 2% deals are generally hard to find these days in solid neighborhoods with low expenses.

Much higher yields than traditional residential.Happy to chat further.