Hire at least two different inspectors.And the sidewalk became an issue.

@Ryan Holtz the Midwest offers many cities that will lead to cashflow on a purchase with 20-2% down.The challenge is YOU understanding the differences between Class A, B & C, so you invest wisely and your expectations are met.You'll probably want to target Class B or C for cashflow, but make SURE you understand the pro & con differences.

However, I'm still open to choosing Columbus Ohio if it's a better investment than the Philadelphia area.My priorities are:- Landlord friendliness (I don't want to get stuck in a location where its hard to get uncooperative tenants out of a property)- Friendlier Short Term Rental laws (AirBNB, etc) - Ideally lower property taxes (Not a huge concern if there isn't a big difference between the two)- Better cash flow (If the different purchase price to cash flow is substantial, I'd want the better cash flowing area)Which between these two regions would you recommend?

@Diana Mulvihill You will get different opinions on this.

There are a few different options/ methods (avoid the dry well in this case).

It is not even about good sponsor vs bad sponsor ; because just about everything , everything is different with different asset class, different market risk. 

You have to pay to sign up with different notary websites to get in their directory (there are only 3 good ones) which cost about $150-$200/year.

Yes, my response would be different if he were not of Seattle.

We all have different pain thresholds and experience in creating value. 

What are the rates going in general or at least difference between conventional and portfolio percentage wise and requirements for portfolio loans?