My family and I live in NELA (Highland Park/Eagle Rock) and we had an unpermitted ADU in our backyard. 

I've found MUCH better CF deals in and around Cincy; however, not necessarily in areas I would feel comfortable living for a year...Either way, you guys rock for giving so much feedback!

If you are going to hire a management company, start interviewing them now - they should be a part of your team and even help somewhat with the acquisition.I'm looking for small apartments too, need to turn a lot of rocks to find a good deal these days.Good luck in your search!

The name brings to mind classic rock and the guy has a Jamaican accent and the two together just made me feel like it was a more... casual... operation than I wanted.  

I am not saying it wouldn't be a good investment, but it doesn't have the name recognition some of the others in that area do (Clearwater, Bradenton, Anna Maria, Indian Rocks)... probably not the price either.

I like the desert landscaping of multch, rocks, and plants that use little water but not sure if that is a good option for Birmingham AL?

@Courtney Rock, any insight?

I honestly believe once you get started and put your foot in the pedal you will be rocking and rolling!

Most faculty and students are part of the church and will not tear the place up.Also nearby are the San Bernardino Mountain communities--Crestline (local County lake for non-motorized boats, recreation and swimming, forest and hiking trails such as to heart rock) , Lake Arrowhead (private lake, allows boats, -make sure the lot has lake membership, some tv stars have vacation homes around here), Running Springs (closest to Snow Valley for skiing), Big Bear (Lake and close to skiing, but more expensive property). 

Make sure you have your numbers rock solid and your team ready to go so you can complete the remodel quickly.