Start asking different professionals these questions and compare their solutions - stick with the professionals who have the best "niche" advice.

You might get a little more, since they are side-by-side, but how does this look compared to a 4-plex?

We thought the terms were pretty good, but wanted to get the opinion of a more experienced investor.then all I can say is go for it your not going to get better always go with the local community bank even if its a tad more. at least U know they are for real compared to those scammers that are so previlant these days offering you terms that are not real in hopes of stealing money from you for up front due diligence.  

I have seen plenty of posts discussing growth in the area and some basic analysis shows that properties are certainly priced favorably (price to rent ratio, etc.) when compared to my home market.

@Javier Perez, I understand that insurance where you are is outsized compared to other markets, but that's not the only factor when considering the difference.With a condo you still have to hold insurance on the unit and you're paying for the complex's master policy through your HOA.

I have been comparing a few cities and am liking the way Columbus OH looks.

 I think you would need to compare apples to apples.  

We're looking at houses that just need a little work (mostly cosmetic, paint, floors, etc), and we've asked him to take a thorough look through the house, give his opinion on what needs to be done and put it in a spreadsheet with cost and timeline so we can compare properties.We're just not sure what we should pay for this type of service and in pricing negotiations now. 

I work a full time job and so does my wife so we're working on real estate on the side and aren't particularly wealthy so we're funding through frugality.Here's the situation.We live in ATX where buying property is generally expensiveRents are relatively low compared to Home Values and the 1% rule never ever comes close hereWe currently own 2 duplexes. 

Not the best seats where people get the VIP dinner, etc.After the event here is over, we can compare notes and pass around the 'good stuff'.How many are in your team?