@Andrew Kahle the Phoenix metro multifamily space is very competitive right now.

I heard the city wanted to find a new sales venue that was more open to competition for the derelict properties.

The seller does not care, the listing agent does not care, they will only take your offer if it is truly the highest offer with a competitive closing timeframe, which it probably won't be unless you are overpaying (at the 5-unit price point) relative to what you are getting (a fourplex).

Lots of growth, stable economy, competitive market rates, and good appreciation.

If you're hitting central Ohio, know that the voicemail/cold call/sms spam is HEAVY on our end, and it is driving people crazy.  

Am I sleeping on other areas that would be better with less competition?

Luckily, Ann Arbor is a super competitive market and the buyers didn't want to continue to compete for a house in the spring so they went to a different lender.

Start with local CUs, they can have some pretty competitive products.BTW, I'd have already taken back that Corolla, if it were me.

My husband and I are about 18 showings into our search for our first deal, locally of course--tough competition out there! 

Investor: Don't overpay for a property, add value when it makes sense to, and be competitive with rent.