But due to the above factors- we're still in a hot and heavy seller's market, with no real relief in sight for buyers (add to that, with the new Burnett / National of Realtors settlement, they will be squeezed even further, having to also potentially shell out their Buyer's agent fees, which, traditionally, have been added into the seller's listing price before listing to provide to the Buyer's agent).

Quote from @Jacob Sherman: ground up construction is always much cleaner . in a fix and flip there are many unknows that may pop up after the demo stage is complete  this guy knows what he's talking about. forget fix and flip. new construction also appraises 20% above at least existing depending on age plus land cost is cheaper and less competitive, especially in markets like columbus 

I’ve got a distressed and on-market house that was recently completely renovated until the couple ran out of money (all of the heavy lifting has been done, just a few things left), and it is listed well below market price compared to surrounding comps I could find.

Our economy is doing very well and Toledo has a very rental-heavy housing culture. 

While it is mainly used for short-term rentals, it may give you some analytics about specific markets such as investability, rental demand, competition, etc. 

Or does no competition mean that the chances are greater of some bookings.

With older homes go heavy on the inspections and know what you’re getting into up front.

However, with overall sales activity still strong, competition can persist, so be prepared to act quickly on properties you love.The good news for most of my buyers is the market pivot towards buyer's seems to let us negotiate more.

Appraisers aren’t keen to train their future competition - they gain nothing out of it. 

Friends close/enemies closer.always great to know the competition.