For example, is 40% back to investors today better than 100% or 0% in 5 years.

For the cheaper house, I got the dining chairs from the Habitat for Humanity Restore and they are much better: no cushions, no crossbars to break, etc.

You'll do better short term. 

Out they go and the sooner the better! 

The plan would be to partner with local hospitals, insurance agencies, businesses, etc. and incorporate great amenities, where I would imagine I could make a better return, but that's where I'm struggling to determine how much better than listings in Furnished Finder.

Columbus has more than 75% of the growing counties. much better to look at larger markets with more submarkets that the demographics and numbers work. that's just my 2 cents.

Lets face it, better to learn on "somebody else's" house about having/hiring painters, flooring guys, electrician, etc. 

Well better late than never on the response!

I grew up there and have done much better investing in central Virginia. 

Better Systems.