The positives are the attractive city location within a big, growing population...in a city with strong job growth within the health and education sectors, among other big employers. 

This cluster of towns seem viable because of a high concentration of colleges, state offices, quality public schools and a strong economic base.

Washington DC market is strong, location is critical!

Had a plumbing issue a couple months ago and probably overpaid to have it fixed, but if you financials and cash flow are strong you can weather a couple smaller rookie mistakes - and get to learn along the way!

I live in Austin, TX and the market here seems to be strong, but definitely overpriced too.Interesting idea about China. 

They all have strong and weak points.

If you are looking for a buy and long term hold then you will want a very strong area with good growth. 

I am strongly considering option 2.

There is a huge inventory of single tenant properties with strong tenants and long term lease contracts. 

@Matthew DrouinYou as sponsor need to be strong enough to carry the personal guarantee yourself, or some lenders will bypass personal guarantees when the borrowers capital contribution is at least 50%.