Then when you have enough money for the 3.5% down, buy a place that you can live in and rent out spaces to other people. 

As a newbie I would not go into this space without money.

Most real estate investors don't get into the investment space to become a landlord.

It has 3 units, an additional dwelling unit in the garden level, and 2 garage parking spaces (which I've come to realize are quite valuable where the property is). 

I am always trying to learn how to do better in this type of space. 

Gave the other tenants a smaller 250 increase and fixed up attic space to rent as storage.

Moreover, the economic ripple effect will likely increase the need for commercial properties, including retail spaces, offices, and support services for the new facility and its employees.Strategic Investment OpportunitiesFor real estate investors, the strategic implication is clear: now is the opportune time to invest in Columbus.

@Mario Morales - Personally, I would do some research in your target market and search (even it on zillow) for 2-4 family properties and see what agent(s) seem to transact the most in that space.

Playing with the repair costs helps me quite a bit when deciding what kind of flooring, how fancy the showerhead can be, etc. 

They don't cover parking spaces.