I know condos might not be the best investment, but I'd rather own something in the city than keep paying rising rent. 

Could you find a better investment on the mainland?

Make sure you also attend some local investing meetups.

Lateefah, Yes, I'm a realtor here in the Emerald Coast, specializing in vacation rentals and investment properties. 

(Especially over the last few years) Is there a catch though to the popularity I'm seeing in Columbus and investing in rentals there? 

While it could have strained cash flow and impacted real estate investment if enacted, there's no immediate need to worry, as this proposal is not expected to become law.

I have not been keeping up with what areas are gentrifying or on the verge of gentrifying but if I was to invest in NYC the first areas I would like at were the locations that are either right on the verge or are changing. 

There's so many carriers still available in Florida - just shop your coverage and it shouldn't crush your margins any more than typical insurance does... maybe others are having worse experiences!

I'm so glad to have found this online community and resource to help me get started on my real estate rental investment.

Investment Info:Single-family residence buy & hold investment.