That said, I completely understand your concern about deals looking "too good to be true" when you’re putting in 50% down.To avoid this, it’s best to analyze properties as if you were using more traditional financing (20-25% down).

I'm looking into purchasing a rental property in the Belmont area of Dayton, OH and wanted to get any insight for this market as it seems concerning that the average rent is higher compared to the actual costs of houses in the area.

Depends on really what you are looking for:-Speed - some HMLS can go "no appraisal" so can close very quickly and beat cash offers if you are in a competitive market to buy-Interest Rates - can range anywhere from around 8% to 13% (same with "points") but not usually as huge of a concern for flippers since the terms are so short-Leverage - depending on your risk appetite / capital - this is also a top concern for some (almost always over and above rates/fees) can see anywhere from around 80% LTC to even mid 90s LTC (including 100% of rehab budget)

There is a range of DSCR lender underwriting policies for "1st time investors" - some don't allow it, some do with no restrictions, and some in the middle (typically cut max LTV by 5% or so and restrict against anything over 4 units)Also - check out these BiggerPockets articles for a ton of info about DSCR loans:DSCR Loans: What Are They And How To Get The Best Termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...DSCR Loans: How To Use Pro Strategies To Save More And Make Morehttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...Multifamily DSCR Loans: A New High-Impact Loan Option For Real Estate Investors?

- Legal and Regulatory Concerns: Are there any local laws or regulations in Fredericksburg, Virginia, that I should be aware of regarding pets in rental properties?

I know that my COC my be lower, etc but my main concern since its my first property is being cash flow positive.  

Landlords in illinois for sfh rentals don't provide snow removal or lawn cutting so thats not an issue.   

There is no short cut. 

By this I mean the liability event that has you so concerned. 

Depending on where it is, your biggest concern should be will the new furnace, AC and hot water tank will still be there after you close.