You can then leverage your paid off deals.A good cap ex safety net of reserves is about $10,000 per unit.I don't really understand notes yet, but it could be beneficial to use a note on each property and continue buying(My own tip) Set your goal, then work backwards.

I need a place to start and this seems like the cheapest route financial without compromising my safety.

You may see better rent to values in those areas and possibly lower buy in (some don’t have city taxes, making cash flow more attractive as well), however you’re giving up a little bit of the safety net of the college population that wants to rent and a lot of commuters who want to live closer to RTP.With the amount of people moving from the north east I believe all areas will grow over the years, it just comes down to the amount of work you’d want to put in, the type of renter you want to cater to, and your business goals.

They can assess the existing structure and advise you on whether it meets the necessary safety and habitability standards.

They also mentioned that whoever bought the property could possibly go through a process to try to have the house torn down due to it being a safety concern for the public.

Your peace of mind and the safety of your family are more important.

The safety and appeal of the neighborhood are crucial too, as they impact tenant attraction and retention.

Highly recommend this, if even based largely on the liability and safety that comes from doing it this way. 

Going this route may be legal if the landlord lives in the house but probably wouldn't increase safety, especially due to the inability to screen guests.)

Also building dept. in all 3 are a pain with the fire & safety inspections.