Here in Columbus, Ohio, we are seeing tremendous growth and revitalization in the city.

There are 4 stages in a neighborhood, growth, stability, decline and gentrification.  

How I like to view things is from the different levels of financial independence:- cash to cover spartan level expenses  like some have mentioned or just bare sustenance  (food, shelter, medical insurance)- cash flow to cover all basic bills (prior plus utilities, cell bills, others)- cash flow to all basis lifestyle and min reserve tucked away as well each month (min reserve, subsequent levels can bank more reserves)- cash flow to cover all basic, additional reserves and growth of future lifestyle increases- cash flow to cover additional lifestyle, reserves, and additional margin to grow other areas of life style, hobbies, and investments well (self funding deals, self fund rehabs, and other activities)At the last level and subsequent higher levels from here and on you can self fund from cash flow alone and "job," not is never needed again but depending on your personal preferences for lifestyle and risk you may work forever to stay busy or may quit the job at steps 2-3.I enjoy what I do as a lender so perhaps I just lower my production down to 2-4 loans a month and just help my past clients and referral partners.

I'm currently living out of state due to work, but being born and raised in South Austin, I'm interested in the central TX market, particularly the longer term growth/appreciation potential of the smaller communities east of 35 corridor (Lockhart, Elgin, Taylor, Luling, etc.) as I anticipate expansion east over the next 10-20 years.  

If you are looking for solid growth and stability with low cap rates it is probably a good bet.

I ran the BP Rental Calculator with the assumptions:Vacancy: 10%Repairs & Maintenance: 10%Capital Expenditures: 10%Property Management Fee: 10%Annual Income / PV / Expenses Growth: 0%Sales Expenses: 0% Having never bought a unit, I could definitely use any insights into the assumptions for this area.

White Rock, Lakewood area does have the growth of jobs and close location to major focuses other than just bars and eateries.

Those that don't go bankrupt will have to put all of their hard earned money into their homes and have less disposable income which will crush the economy around here.  5) Real estate investing 101 - invest in the path of growth.  

I'm leaning toward Builium because I think it is better for long term growth but was hoping others had some input.

Are you looking for long term growth?