There are budget-friendly self-management sites that make setting up applications and collecting rent simple and again, you can pocket that 12%.

For appreciation, Columbus is your best bet.

Almost like trying to bet on the next Amazon.

You can check their insurance coverage, any active lawsuits they have, their workers comp rate (how safe they are on the job site), and other metrics.

I've been working with job titles like construction project manager, who doesn't know a lot about construction but coordinates architects, engineers, GCs etc, the VP of RE management, who also does not know a lot about construction but oversees site selection, lease negotiations, property management, RE accounting who writes my checks and does annual CAM audits, and other jobs like that.

Though I know it's possible for rent and prices to go down, I'm willing to bet this city is here to stay. 

@Drew Shirley I am in the vast minority on this site regarding co-signers.

They will tell you what they are and they include an on site visit to your location.

I still have faith that using leverage in the multifamily space is a safe bet.

They seem mostly suited for off-site wall segments production and I have to wonder about the economic viability in real-world projects.