I was hoping a local bank could help but they aren't very good at returning calls apparently to get free money from me haha. 

Since you won't be local- it may be worthwhile to use a property manager.

@Mark Albini Google some of the California projects I'm always seeing on the local news here, you'll see how elaborate they can be, The only ones I'm seeing get done with zoning changes are the ones that have some sort of Non-profit or charitable component.

Thanks Hitanshu - I just financed a 4-Plex and went with a local credit union.

Get to a local meetingTHIS is how you start :) Good luck 

Partnering with Joslyn Lukestich-Lewis provided valuable local insights, making this an attractive and strategic investment for Partner Driven.

I am looking for property management recommendations in the area, and would prefer local managers, but am keeping options open.

I also live and invest locally here in Columbus.

I'd recommend researching areas to see that they have:- Low unemployment- High demand for housing - relatively low inventory- local job creation/booming local economy- high avg/median income- increasing population- low average days-on-market (DOM)- history of rent and property value increases YOY- low crime- highly-rated schools (or above average)I'd compare the target neighborhood to surrounding neighborhoods and/or nearest metro areas. 

Partnering with Seth Choate provided valuable local insights, making this an attractive and strategic investment for Partner Driven.