I don't want to get into specifics but we passed on the property for a couple of reasons you mentioned.

Is there a particular reason?   

I don't know where to invest, really drawn to Columbus for many reasons (some cash flow and stable appreciation)--what's been some people's positive and negative experiences in Columbus? 

With only that information, I see no reason not to.

I stopped reading after reading your subject line...know this:The #1 reason why landlords fail is due to their failure to manage to the lease (Source: American Apartment Owners' Assn). 

I’m a bit biased for obvious reasons, but seriously, Georgia is perfect for small multifamily projects.

There’s no real reason to jump into another market unless your goals shift and your current market doesn’t fit anymore—or if the market itself stops producing the results you need.Mastering one market and squeezing every opportunity out of it is a much better play than spreading yourself too thin and getting half-baked results in multiple places.

@Scott Trench there isn't any good or intelligent reason. 

There is no point in looking at a home that can not reasonably obtain a permit.

Tell him you'll give him a call :) This is one of the reasons why we tell tenants they need to vacate the property for any major repairs.