New investor in St. Louis area

I'm a new and eager investor in the St. Louis area, looking to buy my first house hack by the end of 2021. I am looking to see what people's opinions are of the current market in the area, and if they have any advice for a new investor.

One of the things that I am trying to decide is if this is the right time, and if the deal that I am looking for exists in the current market.

Being that this will be a house hack, and will be my girlfriend and my primary residence, I want to make sure the area is safe. Also, being that this is St. Louis, I know that deals in "safe" areas can be hard to find -- especially now.

The specific criteria that I've come up with:

- Duplex in the range of $100,000 - $225,000

- Both units are rent ready (not a deal breaker if some cosmetic work needed)

- Safe neighborhood

- Side by side is preferred

Really I'm looking for some general advice and guidance; if anyone has some insight, that would be amazing!