However, after tenant moved out on 9/30/24, the pool for interested tenants was shallow and so we listed the property to test the market and ended up getting an offer at asking price within a couple days.

I just want to focus on what I do and whether I can legally employ one or another approach/strategy, to test its viability.

Columbus is a strong option where you can find properties with favorable rent-to-price ratios for cash flow, while also benefiting from business expansion and population growth that drive long-term appreciation. 

Some, like the last one we got in place, used a drive by estimate of value rather than a full interior appraisal.  

How many weekends do you want to drive up north to find, purchase, setup and maintain an STR?

A supply and demand imbalance drives rents and prices higher.

Driving a car is legal, as long as you follow the rules.

Hard work and knowledge and drive.

Out of state investing in cities within a reasonable driving distance may be a good option. 

You'll need to really look at yourself and understand what you do well and enjoy, at the end of the day if you enjoy what you do you'll have more drive be successful everyday.