I find myself spending a little more off season than on as I do more tweaking and research to remain competitive and in front of eyeballs.  

Columbus is going to be the best option for a market that's seeing a lot of economic growth with heavy appreciation and a little cash-flow in certain areas. 

A popular strategy I've seen work is to scale with properties in the C locations and then slowly upgrade your portfolio into the nicer asset classes as you progress and become more cash flow heavy. 

I have a good agent I've worked with for years and letting him represent me not only gives me the advantage of additional counsel, it also gives me someone else to do the heavy lifting so I can concentrate on the deals themselves rather than the intricacies of the actual contract, the process of moving everything through closing and all the hiccups that often come with investment properties.

The Smokies are a favorite of mine, but beware it is an ultra competitive market. 

I have awesome subs(foundation, framing, plumbing) I work with for the heavy lifting.

This would be primarily due to your competitive advantage of living in Chicago and knowing the market.

The house needs heavy renovations3. 

With your upgrades and competitive price, it’s all about connecting with the right buyer!

Property is being sold at a heavy discount.