Even if you could count on the 5% increase per year you mentioned, I would be shocked if your taxes and insurance increase per year was less than that.Roof 2 years old might need to be replaced within 10 years, water heater and HVAC may not need to be replaced, will sill surely need a number of maintenance events, ...all of which will increase your cash costs, and delay the cash return. 

Networking at events is a great way to connect with people in your community and find an investor who may be willing to be your mentor.  

We are currently considering a wedding/event venue for that purpose.

Columbus can be popular with events like OSU football games, Crew games, BlueJacket games, and other conventions when they come to Columbus annually. 

Here is some events posted on BP:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...

Will discuss after the dust clears, or at the DMV REI Meetup - I just found out about this event, so I'll check it out.Next one is coming up July:DMV July REI Meet-up!

If you have not yet I would suggest to use eventbrite or meetup.com to look event in your area.

Go to networking events and be intentional about who you're looking to meet that day and what kind of value you'd like to add to them.

I had a client who found a fantastic piece of land this way; he started chatting with someone at a local real estate event, and boom!

Attending local meetups/conferences/networking events is a GREAT way to share advice, insights, and make connections.