All Forum Posts by: Evan Hopple

Ohio has plenty of good options under $200k for single family homes and small multifamily. Columbus is the strongest growth market out of the Ohio cities you mentioned, driven by significant business expansion. You can read more about it here: https://www.bridgemi.com/business-watch/what-michigan-can-le....

Regardless of which market you choose to invest in, it's important to understand the area well and identify neighborhoods on the rise. An investor-friendly agent will be able to help you locate these areas. Even in a city with a declining overall population, there are still pockets experiencing growth that can be good options.

@Nataly Naim

Old Brooklyn, Brooklyn Centre, Jefferson, Cudell, Fairfax, and Garfield Heights all have good options in that price range. 

I have a graded neighborhood map that I can share to give you a better feel for the area. 

Hi Otis, when partnering on real estate, it’s important to set clear roles, contributions, and profit splits upfront. An operating agreement is key to avoiding confusion, and working with a CPA or attorney can help protect both sides.

Are you looking for a passive partner or someone more hands-on?  

PM fees in Ohio typically range between 8–10% of gross income. Some companies also charge a leasing fee (around half to one month’s rent) for placing new tenants. Let me know if you need recommendations!

Hey @Danny Goss, welcome to BP! 

The right investment strategy depends on your risk tolerance and available time, especially when partnering with family. The BRRRR strategy is doable for a newer investor, but it requires a lot of effort, consistency, and hands-on involvement—it's not exactly a passive way to invest.

Whichever route you choose, if you're taking on the bulk of the work to analyze deals and select the best ones, it’s important to ensure your partnership reflects the time and energy you’re putting in. A clear operating agreement from the start is key to keeping on the same page. 

But yes, good value add deals are out there. Good luck!

Hey @Matt Powers, 

I’ve lived in Columbus, OH, for the last four years, and it’s a fun city with a growing population and a strong job market. Short-term rentals are popular around the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, mid-term rentals are common to target traveling nurses and doctors from health facilities like Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

I’ve also spent time living in Cincinnati and it has a lot of unique character. It doesn’t feel as “Midwest” as Columbus does, with a more distinct vibe. Cincinnati is a well-established city supported by five Fortune 500 companies, which sustains a strong local economy.

Hey @Shaheen Ahmed, 

A lot of deals aren’t top performers right out of the gate, but the key is finding ways to maximize income to offset costs like taxes.

Stay consistent with analyzing deals you’ll find an area that works for you.

Rental regulations in Ohio can vary a lot from city to city, with Cleveland being the most heavily regulated. Dayton could be a good alternative, offering similar price points.

To narrow your options further, consider factors like population and job growth, cash flow potential, and the quality of neighborhoods you’d feel comfortable investing in.

Welcome, @Jerem Kaawaloa ! BP is a great place to kick off your investment journey! It won't take long for you to zero in on what’s most important to you and aligns with your goals. Partnering with the right investment Realtor can be a game changer—they’ll help fill in the gaps, give market insight, and bring you deals that best match your strategy. Good luck!