If anyone has any other suggestions about alternative strategies in the area that could facilitate cashflow, Id be all ears.

For me, it has to be a data-driven decision: what is your current NOI, what would be if you replaced the boiler, how much will it cost, and how long will it take to get your money back...If the area and marketing don't warrant central air, I would NOT do conensors right away and just focus on the forced air.

., allowing investors to purchase properties at a fraction of the cost compared to cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago.

We’re considering whether to do mid-grade updates and rent it soon if we can find a good next property though acquisition and ongoing costs are a problem.

I buy in upscale areas and my appreciation is much better than “affordable” SFH in the Midwest.

I live and invest in the Lafayette area myself - I own several in the area - broussard, freetown, broadmoor etc There's a decent market here, I think it's somewhat competitive but there is some availability as wellOff-market is the way to go 100%Purchasing a starter home is a great way to get started - I turned my first home into a rental before I even looked into real estate investing.

I've actually had a lot of success renting by the bedroom in the Sedona & Verde Valley (Arizona) area.

We often advise people to house hack when getting started and you are a real success story!

They are a bunch of cheapskates. 

I put my location as New York since that is where I will be moving after college for work.