You will get cross eyed trying to do it yourself.

Finding the true appreciation rate for specific towns can be a bit tricky, but you can start by looking at historical sales data, talking to local realtors, or even checking out some online tools that track market trends.If the condos you’re eyeing aren’t meeting the 2% rule, it might be worth reconsidering or at least getting a more detailed breakdown of potential long-term appreciation and other benefits, like tax advantages or rental demand growth in the area.

If you're not working with a local agent to help you screen tenants...I would say the best way to get as many eyes on the property is create marketing material - add to local FB groups and host 2 consecutive open house weekends showing a model unit and amenities.If you're close to any University Campuses - I would also suggest to partner with the university for housing opportunities for upperclass students.Good luck with filling those up!

It becomes risky in the banks eyes.

Catch the seller’s attention with a competitive offer that will at the very least, produce a counter offer.

HI all could not manage without my PM he is my eyes on the ground living  out of state out of country infact  having a great one is essential  do am glad  

Real estate’s a marathon, not a sprint, so keep your eye on the long game.

(Especially over the last few years) Is there a catch though to the popularity I'm seeing in Columbus and investing in rentals there? 

This "guest" will be a tenant in the eye of the law so then you should treat them as a tenant and properly screen them and have them added to the lease. 

what it sounds like you are asking is illegal in many ways, section 8 laws, local laws, duel contract laws that conflict, there always has been also those out there looking to catch you breaking them,  avoid it, dont offer it, dont entertain it, there is leeway up if the tenant meets certain conditions, say need 1 floor rental, if not rent may be inflated over realistic market, which is what rented at not listed at, keeping in mind sec 8 market rents also include utilities paid, you can usually reach by email fastest, they have set chart, heat type, neighborhood etc, more than listings found online