However, thinking about this further I realized that you need to place more emphasis on "growth soon" than "long term growth", when starting out.
Good point. In this environment, then a more modest purchase that you can add value through a reno (which may include an update to the bathroom or kitchen, new paint , floor coverings, window furnishings), maybe the best option. That may lend itself to a unit.
Of course it depends on whether you have the desire to do this.