Personally, I'm incredibly ignorant on the subject compared to others, but find it fascinating.

I am trying to get one of mine in the Luxe category and it has been futile - especially when I compare my property to the few Luxe ones in my locale.  

The training as compared to other "guru" programs is not much.

There was a BP member who was quite active for a short duration that presented hi use case for RE not being a good investment compared to other investments especially ially stocks.  

Also would love answer to the following: - Are there any specific challenges or advantages you experienced compared to a JV structure?

I looked at the comparable home sales and felt like the prices he wanted left me with enough room to make some money.

The reason for my preference of the OH market is the price of homes compared to the price of rents.

That's it, but a) print out a page for each property you think is comparable, b) make the list of repairs long and inclusive of everything you've done. c) Put larger items first like kitchen remodel......and don't just say 'kitchen remodel', list things like 'custom backsplash tile/Bosch appliances/recessed can lighting/pot filler/etc. d) Cite the price/value of the work done, and don't be afraid to be generous.

I would factor in time to travel to any market, but AZ is relatively quick compared to the east coast. 

I've attached the median list price for Detroit here as well to compare to something like Cincinnati.