Screening all applicants is crucial, especially if you're going to be living with them. 

I'll say doing your research on landlord-tenant laws is crucial, consider property management if you're not into self managing your property, secure financing, crunch the numbers and prioritize location and property condition when searching.

Market timing: Keeping an eye on the state of the market is crucial, even if there is never a perfect moment to buy.

I have seen some listing agents market this feature...and that's good to do to generate interest...but you'll never know for sure what those seller concessions are used towards.

It's crucial at the beginning to identify your financial goals as well as the amount of risk you are willing to undertake then come up with a plan that is in line with them.

In Franklinton there are plenty of large projects going on that will bring massive growth to the west side of Columbus, such as the Peninsula Development, which is a multiphase project that will erect a 24 story apartment complex featuring a grocery store, a multi use office space building, and a new hotel featuring a two-story Pins Mechanical venue.

And are there any common pitfalls or crucial advice you wish someone had shared with you at the beginning of your investment career?

One of my recent projects was even featured in it!

It's crucial that we continuously educate ourselves to ensure we're conducting business legally, ethically, and in a manner that's truly trustworthy and beneficial for all involved.

Regulations may vary depending on the neighborhood, so research is crucial.