First, I want to experience the strength/weakness of each platform so I can eventually select a few good ones that can sustain any real estate market turmoils.

anyone know of any handymen in the dallas region?  

Agree that $100/door is a target often used, but think this is pretty regional.  

But don't just look for the quick buck - this is a long game and to be sustainable you want to take your time with first deal especially in an area like Bergen County where you can graduate to more upscale neighborhoods too.

I don't know if $86k is considered a large or small mortgage in your region -- if $86k isn't considered large for a mortgage, it might not be worth the hassle. 

Rent cheaper digs, move home with mom, rent better digs because you only live once, move off the grid and self-sustain, buy a 40k SUV and short-sale your house that is mortgaged for 80k 4 years later (seen this one).  

Additionally, within each respective state the city portion has different regions with differing costs and opportunities.

Or perhaps diversify by investing in multiple buildings in different regions as a passive investor via the crowdfunding sites.

"Ill gotten gains will not sustain!"

I think it depends on your market, and if the rents will sustain the amount of increase.On the other hand, I find that most tenants, if water is included, seem to abuse the water usuage and never let you know if there is a leak