Cash flow is a little tight in Phoenix, but the appreciation is very healthy.

I love healthy discussions on challenging topics

To me, that means healthy, sustainable growth with plenty of opportunity to find qualified renters for buy and hold.

If you can verify the funds you used for Y (HUD showing cash-to-close, receipts/invoices from contractors, etc), you may be able to get Y back as "cash-out" if you are at a very healthy LTV. 

It sounds like you have a nice healthy pool of propsects to select from, choose the ones you think will help you keep the place clean and fresh.

Having trouble pulling comps and would also like some general info on how healthy that market is (for a possible flip or rental).

For now, read all you can and focus on acquiring enough capital to be able to make a good start with a healthy reserve buffer - don't spend everything you have on your first deal, you need a little cushion for the unexpected.

I want the company/companies that deliver my money to be healthy and long-lasting, not go out of business because all of its customers robbed it of a few pennies enough so the entire enterprise fails. 

Healthy mix of cash flow and appreciation, and depending on the part of the city you are in, can tip the scale of those 2 one way or another.

Columbus Ohio is the market to be and here are a couple of reasons why.Positive real estate trends: Columbus has seen consistent growth in both home prices and rental rates in recent years, indicating a healthy and stable real estate market.Strong job market: Columbus has a diverse and growing economy, with major employers in industries such as education, healthcare, and technology.