Starting to invest in Columbia, SC

[David Freeman]

Hi all,

My business partner and I have identified Columbia, SC as our next rental market. We are OOS investors.We'd like to begin purchasing SFH properties there at a pace of 1-2 every 3ish months. I'd love everyone's opinions on the following.

Areas we're looking at:

Five Points, West Columbia, Lexington, Downtown, Irmo, Shandon, Rosewood, Olympia, Ballentine, Earlewood, Forrest Acres, Millwood, Blythewood, Chapin, Quail Valley, Spring Valley, Elmwood, Arsenal Hill, Broad, Bush River

Areas we're avoiding:

North Main, Two Notch, Friarsgate, North Columbia

1st question: Are there any areas we aren't looking at OR are there any areas we should be avoiding that we aren't?

2nd question: We understand tax implications at a high level but are still struggling with how to estimate investment property tax over regular property tax. Are there some resources you all recommend?

3rd question: We're looking to connect with other local 1) real estate agents and 2) property managers. If you are either of those, please reach out so we can chat! We already have a few high quality 

Our ideal house is between 75,000 and 125,000. We're willing to pay a premium for recently renovated homes or homes in good shape. Brick homes in particular. 

Thanks everyone!