As for Columbus, it’s a growing market with potential for strong rental demand, but make sure to research specific neighborhoods, local market trends, and the level of competition to ensure you’re making a smart investment.

What is the appreciation, condition, community, class level and vacancy rates?

My property is in San Jose, CA and would be worth about $1M and the above insurance is at the same level as my homeowners and costs a little more (about 7% more).

Almost all properties need some level of work, so if you drain your accounts just to buy a property, you could be in a world of hurt later on.

It is not always about stats.Recommendations:Neighborhood-Level Research: Don't just look at city-wide data.

The software doesn't provide that level of granular detail that can mean the difference between 2k and 3k a month. 

And networking will propel you to the next level.

Assets are performing well and hopefully in 4-6 years things will level off and we’ll see our return along the way at some point or at disposition.  

Quote from @Levi Perl: The purpose of background screening is to determine a level of risk, and then you decide if you can mitigate that risk.How does a DUI conviction from three years ago impact the tenant's ability to pay rent or maintain the property?

I think I'm just not understanding what sort of realtor would be willing to help do something like this because I assume most realtors are used to finding you a move-in ready primary home and that's really what they know, and that the price needs to be a certain level to get a worthwhile commission.