I think people are investing in Midwest states, like Ohio, because of cheap prices, high rents, and landlord friendly laws

You should not think about it but you should calculate it. this is how you make money  in residential:( cash flow + appreciation + equity building ) - (mortgage+PITI) if you do not cash flow is ok as long as appreciation rate is high. 

Alot of factors to consider in terms of rates but Id say par for the course in the conventional space high 6's

Do any of you work with a property manager that you highly recommend?

Quartz makes sense for a high end unit/ fancy neighborhood where you can and will attract tenants willing to pay more for them.Repainting is often a no brainer, but could be based on the current conditions as to whether or it is needed.I agree with Melanie on researching the washer/dryer comps. 

Again, if you are financing the rehab costs then this question becomes highly critical.There is good money to be made in expensive neighborhoods and also in low-cost neighborhoods. 

I've also added a spreadsheet for me to help me with a little extra organization.Anyway, I highly recommend it as it's easily a net positive and takes almost no time. 

One of the biggest complaints with DSTs is the high cost/fees associated with them.

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator.So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

Furthermore, understanding the resident characteristics allows me to measure the target market and modify my investment strategy accordingly.Inspection ChecklistSituations vary from one property to the next, but here is an on-site inspection checklist to get you started:Interior Units:Inspect vacant units, including one of each finish out type (Classic, Reno, etc.).Check all down units.Inspect one unit from each unit mix.Exteriors:Landscape:Look for overgrown bushes.Identify trees that need trimming (no branches hanging over the roof).Take pictures of the following:Curb appeal on all sides facing the street.Landscape around the office and amenities.Overgrown bushes or trees.Any dead landscape.Areas that may need sod or mulch.Assess drainage:Ensure water flows away from building foundations.Check slope, gutters, downspouts, surface drains, French drains, etc.Exterior Walls:Determine the existing material (wood, vinyl, Hardie, brick, stone).Assess the condition of the walls.Note if painting is required.Take pictures of each building, including building number, each elevation (clockwise), and any breezeways or niches.Windows:Evaluate the condition of existing windows.Consider whether solar screens should be installed.Roof:Identify the type of roof.Assess its condition and age.Parking Lot:Check for potholes.Assess the need for restriping.Note whether the parking lot is concrete or asphalt.Evaluate drainage issues.Walkway:Look for tripping hazards.Assess drainage issues.Foundation/Gutters:Inspect for cracks in the brick.Check for separation in corners from fascia and trim boards.Evaluate drainage and identify poor drainage areas.Amenities:Identify possible improvements.Consider adjustments or additions that can enhance amenities.Talk to the Staff:Maintenance: Inquire about the physical condition.Office: Discuss current residents, delinquency, and potential changes to add value.Assess whether rents are too high or too low.Confirm rents and what is included/not included.Confirm other sources of income and associated charges.Confirm occupancy, pre-release, and vacancy numbers.Note: Maintain professionalism and avoid insulting the owner or broker, regardless of the property's condition.Keep in mind that investing in real estate is like solving a puzzle—you need all the pieces to see the big picture.