The big pros are the strong job market (lots of major employers), good population growth, and still-reasonable entry prices.

Columbus also has great macroeconomics - lots of job growth, population growth, and major employers developing here.

Maybe talk with some realtors who have people who cannot get a loan because they are self employed, but have plenty of down payment.

As I mentioned in my previous responses to this thread, I am employed by LoanGuys as a customer service representative.

Multifamily mindset has recruited students from all walks of life such as teachers, medical doctors, veterans, real estate agents, business men, and I was included into a group (multifamily mindset encourages students to form groups) and one of them is a veteran who is divorced, has kids to support, not employed during that time, got a loan of $40,000 for the tuition.

If you’ve got strong tenant demand, proximity to top employers, or even access to public transit, you’re laying a solid foundation.

I did all my other due diligence like asking for paystubs, W2s, Tax returns, Employment verification, bank statements etc etc and did not see any red flags overall.

Avoiding the occupants from squatting is best addressed with background checks, employment verifications, and references before signing the lease.

Additionally, you may wish to speak with a CPA as to whether or not becoming an S Corp is the right decision – they can assist with reducing self-employment taxes.

I am a self employed residential general contractor.