Zero cash flow translates to negative cash flow in the short term because you have to maintain it.  

I am looking into the following markets and would like to get feedback from seasoned investors/realtors/lenders/project managers regarding the market barometer is like. 

We already have a small portfolio, 3 doors, in Omaha, NE where we live, but the market here has gotten too competitive/overpriced.

Realize most SFH and MFH has been in a Sellers market.  

However, if there are utlities in that market on 30 or 90 day billing cycles, that could be the issue. 

Learn the basics of financials in RE, build a strong team on the ground, understand the ins and outs of RE and what market your in, understand how to actually flip the home and what strategy you are doing (Highly recommend the BRRR) as holding homes is where the money is made.REAL ESTATE IS NOT EASY!!!

You get what you pay for, but if well maintained they will hold up.

So, if you can budget for maintenance and maintain adequate reserves, you will be much better off in the long run skipping purchased warranties. 

I've always had good luck with Furnished Finder (but in the Denver market).

Every market is different, but here in Pittsburgh the 20+ properties per month that we put out are usually off-market and below market value so a generally low barrier of entry.