My main concern is the timing of my purchase, I'm concerned we can see a significant nation-wide down-turn that has not materialized in OBX yet. 

I worked for the largest Nationwide DST and TIC sponsor for 10 years before moving over to the Qualified Intermediary side. 

We also lend nationwide!

They are nationwide and have a great reputation. 

KW also wrote the books ..Millionaire Real Estate Investor, FLIP, and HOLD and while I've never seen any stats on that aspect, I'll bet there are more investor agents investing in all types of real estate in a big way at Keller Williams than at any other brokerage nationwide if that is the direction you want to go. 

I've been trying to follow what is happening on the STR front nationwide and would love to hear from BP members about what's happening in your particular city/location as far as restrictions? 

Also, you can easily hold notes nationwide and wouldn’t be confined to your region.

Specifically, there's job growth (Intel, Honda, Amazon, Nationwide, etc) and the population is growing (unlike Cleveland or Cincy).

Columbus has a ton of potential near Nationwide Children's Hospital in Old town east or King-Lincoln Bronzeville or you could always target OSU Wexner Medical Center and buy in Short North Arts District. 

We are also nationwide,and able to support your needs to create a successful real estate portfolio.