@Robert Gorra - I've had a similar experience where I've had a really hard time with getting GC's to even give me an estimate, and the few that have have been way overpriced (ie, they want me to put in $20k of cabinets in a budget flip) or have had their prices go up by about 40% and still not give me a firm price when I try to nail down the scope of work.

This photo is of our first house we purchased for Sober Living in 2019 up in Marysville, WA, the town I grew up in. 

With your experience and possible skillset, perhaps finding a company to sponsor you for a green card may be a better option? 

If anyone has any experience or suggestions, please jump in!

Your experience reminds me to manage the portfolio well (i.e. sell losers) and to be patient. 

I'm looking for other PPR investors willing to share with their experience with me.

Quote from @David Lambert: Hey David, I have experience managing properties for my mentor before going out and buying my first one.

If you are looking for proper guidance from someone that has house hacked quite a few times and has the knowledge and experience to help get you going in the right direction, I recommend reaching out to @Josh Green.

I invite seasoned investors to share their experience buying their first 2-4 unit properties. here are some questions to base your response/story1) how did you find your first property ?

I don't know where to invest, really drawn to Columbus for many reasons (some cash flow and stable appreciation)--what's been some people's positive and negative experiences in Columbus?