none of the above  Any insight into other options?

Cleveland almost seems like the best option because of the affordability and rental demand, but worries me due to the high property taxes and lack of population and economic growth.

Over the past several years it has seem there have been more and more options.

LLCs tend to be beneficial for financing options if using hard money as it can be required depending on the program.

Just trying to see what is the best option. 

@Susan Tan you may also have lending options in the Houston area that offer 100% LTC financing for rehab projects.

Gives you more options.- at year 7 if value appreciated a lot, can i do a HELOC on it and use that HELOC to pay off the balloon - probably not due to lien being secondary etc on helocYes on the HELOC, but it would probably be easier just to refi and pay off the seller, and cash out more money too.Hope that helps and good luck!

Hard money lender/DSCR - both are good options.

Having the info will help you weigh the options and make an informed decision.

.- Suggest you try to network with other landlords in your area, check MeetUp app and others.Your other option is to hire an attorney, but understand you will have to pay them for your ignorance.