We were thinking of buying in Columbus, OH, Indianapolis, IN and Salt Lake city.

I think there is lots of great advice here!

I'm not sure how much of that is going on right now, but I'm sure there are always traveling nurses and doctors coming into this area that need short term housing.A lot, of property management companies will only do a minimum of one year leases, but I think there is good value to be had in the short term rental game, as long as you have a good strategy and a management company that is align with your vision.When I was leasing full-time, I used to get a lot of calls from insurance companies who have clients who's properties have been in a fire or some natural disaster and need short term housing, and they're also willing to pay a lot higher than market rent. 

They think it's unfair because they only shower once a week but can hear the upstairs neighbor showering twice daily.

If you're open to other markets, I invest locally in the midwest and I think we have some strong RE markets that are relatively affordable. 

I can see the value there, on the other end it may make some folks think some activities not included are not REPS activities when they might actually be.

@Jack Lindstromdefinitely house hack. and if you're trying to 'cash flow' a house hack - reframe your thinking. 

With that being said, I dont think it hurts to knock out some leasing for fast cash but let it steer you away from your long-term goals and staying on the path will get you there the fastest.Good luck!!

I think the average home sale price in Shelby County is ~$220k and the Greater Atlanta Area encompasses 3 counties; Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb County.

I would think that 9% is reasonable.