He would own the lien on the building and it's only a two-year commitment with a really good return.

Further, if you're getting a loan that does have an occupancy requirement (i.e. an owner occupied loan) that you have no intention of occupying you're committing loan fraud. 

You're advertising up front that you're only willing to commit to a year - actually less, based on only putting 6 months into escrow.

I’m about to close on my first deal and the only way the bank would provide a commitment letter is through a partnership.

I would advise you not to commit mortgage fraud.

Also the tenant started working for cash and I believe he may have been committing SNAP fraud but I have no proof.

As for Cummins future in Columbus, Cummins made a commitment to Columbus a few years back that they would be keeping their headquarters here - investing around $50 million into the city (http://indy.st/2uxRaOw)If you have any other specific questions about Columbus or my experiences over the last three years, let me know and I’d be more than willing to help out!

So I am wanting to get started in real estate investing in Columbia SC, I am coming across loads of deals which interest me but I never want to commit because I am worried that I won't be able to finance them. 

That's a long time to commit just to earn a little cash.

Police involuntarily committed him to a facility.