Costs will be more and the work level will be greater.

The internet leveled the information asymmetry and I visited all the houses I wanted during the open houses. 

The City of Montgomery is the Capital of Alabama with a robust economic environment that has produced multiple awards of excellence at the Chamber of Commerce level.

Ultimately, it’s about the level of involvement and risk tolerance you’re comfortable with.

I’m not skilled in repairs and live in a high-cost, tenant-friendly area, what would be the best way to invest my money?

Experience level of the team.

The individuals I've met along the way that are really good at real estate are analytical, level headed, and disciplined.

.  :-) Congrats on those deals  I just have not wanted to take on hundreds of investors.. my one I did we raised half the one you mention ( 7.5 mil)  with only 6 investors so On a very personal level with each..

Depending on your level or preference of analysis, data and their providers are incredibly important and difficult to obtain when it comes to real estate underwriting.

Long story short if you are committed to house hacking the sky is the limits and there is endless possibility, it really comes down to your comfort level and where exactly you need to be in New Jersey.