A rental in SD 1 (A -C rating) will always have higher demand (and usually higher rent) than the rental down the street in SD 2 (D - F).

Columbus is rapidly growing, with the population, job market, and growing tech scene driving strong rental demand.

There is enough demand on the north side you should never have a tenant issue if you do the correct due diligence.Secondly, lots of fake applicants lately.

Those are key to demand and long-term value.It all comes down to your underwriting.

In a market like this where properties are sitting a bit longer, buyer demand is kind of stagnant, many appraisals have been coming in lower than anticipated.

Flipping it will take time if you have to sell.Plus a home like that doesn't lend itself to a LTR unless there is a demand for high end rentals.What I would like to see is some examples of what you are looking at along with basic numbers you have run so far.

(The bulk of the problem is Nimby-ism and local regulations that prohibit sufficient building of new homes to meet demand.)

If there is more demand than supply, this will be the outcome in desirable areas. 

These areas usually strike a balance between affordability for investors and demand from tenants with vouchers.

If you move to NYC, focus on maximizing your earning potential while investing in affordable out-of-state markets with strong rental demand, like San Antonio or Indianapolis.