Lexington is bad too, but not nearly as bad as Richland County.

These are high quality properties that require very little or no deferred maintenance for the Buyers.  

Just as bad as the posts you see from time to time of the grandchild wanting to work out creative financing to buy their grandparents house below fair market value.  

In the really bad cases they disappear to another country and try getting them to sign stuff at an Embassy abroad. 

A shorter term tenant could do fine for you because they are not bad but just people in transition, so you don't lower your standards. 

Quote from @Martin Jones: YouTube gurus will tell you to borrow money from someone else, but that's bad advice for a beginner.

If you think you can manage a mortgage, taxes, insurance and the upkeep of a home while paying your student loans then buying is not  bad idea but if you think you will overstretch yourself renting is nto bad either.

Simple touches like fresh paint, landscaping, and clean walkways can make a big difference.Highlight Key Features: During the appraisal, point out any high-quality materials or unique features you've added.

Throwing good money after bad to delay a negative report.  

If you just hire the cheapest or first PMC you speak with and it turns into a bad experience, please don’t assume ALL PMC’s are bad and start trashing PMC’s in general.