I think personally it makes sense if you're staying at a good rent level and can buy a multifamily house to generate cash flow.

You want cash flow and appreciation, not just one or the other.

.$1,680 (8% of rent)Mortgage $6,360Calculations:NOI = Income (minus vacancy)- Expenses (Prop tax, insur, and Prop mgt)         = 21,000- 4,080          = $16,920Cash Flow = NOI - Debt service (mortgage)                  = 16,920 - 6,360                  = $10,560ROI = Cash flow/ Investment basis       = $10,560/ $30,480       = 34.6%Cap rate = NOI/ Purchase price                = 16,920 / 129,900                = 13.0% Cash on cash = ???

If you want cash flow from day one, then you should target a 95%+ occupancy rate.

Positive cash flow, or appreciation? 

The no hassle cash flow website seemed interesting but again i'm still researching before i actually invest.

You have to do an analysis of what the cash flow is taking into account - mortgage loan and rate, insurance, taxes (High in some parts of Texas) Vacancy, repairs, cost of processing applications, showing, writing up leases or paying property management to do it.   

What is the best way to go about raising the rate to create more cash flow without loosing tenants?

Good luck to everyone pursuing cash flow through real estate, it can be done, but it is not easy.       

Thing is many are A-class neighborhoods so generating cash flow will be difficult as the market pricing is supported by owner occupied purchases.Is Parma a good area for investing?