Hey guys, Still renting until I'm in financial shape to buy but I recently need some renters advice.

That way you can explain what is needing done, and your friend can help with the "feel good" factor , to ensure the contractor seems like a legitimate guy.

for the guy wanting to buy it.. makes zero sense.. unless he likes it and wants to hold it for 10 to 30 years and let tenant payoff house for him..

Hey guys - I'm an investor based out of Nashville, too.

The other aspect of providing income to live on which you mentioned was one of your goals, through apartments is being a passive investor in syndication deals which would provide you a return on the money you invest which would provide passive income to you and if working with experienced operators in a deal you will also be able to learn on how these guys are doing what you want to do in the future which is be an active full time real estate investor.

If you get a nice inspector he'll probably waive the fee once it's repaired.As for being a Our Of State owner,, your simply out of it and will always have more issues to deal with.. 

That guy sounds like a crook

Then of course your tax/accounting guy can save you thousands. 

I'd encourage you to find an agent that understands real estate investing and have them set you up on searches with the keywords "motivated" "seller carry" "lease option purchase"If you are playing at the auction then you are swimming with sharks - even the savviest of investor would be outmatched for the guy's doing it day in and day out in that arena.

There are nice pockets in most areas of greater Cincinnati, but in general the east side is "nicer" to me.