However, I'm still open to choosing Columbus Ohio if it's a better investment than the Philadelphia area.My priorities are:- Landlord friendliness (I don't want to get stuck in a location where its hard to get uncooperative tenants out of a property)- Friendlier Short Term Rental laws (AirBNB, etc) - Ideally lower property taxes (Not a huge concern if there isn't a big difference between the two)- Better cash flow (If the different purchase price to cash flow is substantial, I'd want the better cash flowing area)Which between these two regions would you recommend?

Keeps our taxes as Agriculture versus commercial.  

@Neera MelwaniI recommend finding a tax strategist specializing in real estate taxation.

If you are a tax accountant, get thru that busy season. 

I'm looking for opinions on flat fee listing services.

I can typically increase their income enough to cover my fees, while also protecting their time and sanity.

Typical property management fees for long-term rentals are anywhere between 6-12% of rental income while fees for short-term rentals can range between 20-40% of income.  

Could you hold a 2, 3 or 4-plex in an LLC, live in one and still sell the entire building as a personal property sale after 24 months (no cap gains tax)?

A small fee and possible annual inspections .

I’ve had realtors/brokerages ask me for a $500 “paperwork/storage fee” as a buyer.