I launched a platform which allows the "everyday Joe" to invest in real estate.  

I bet if you listen to BP podcasts for 3 straight days you will learn more than the Than Merrill seminar and BP podcast is free.

BiggerPockets gives one the Platform to continually sharpen one's ax.Have a Prosperous Day...

I would never want to bet on speculation in this or any market.

Your best bet would be to check the property tax or zoning maps.

If you're a new investor with limited funds, you're best bet is to find the lower price point counties in the DC area and focus there- Prince George's County, Waldorf, Anne Arundel, Montgomery (certain areas), Baltimore, etc (really most of Southern MD is pretty decent)Trying to go into the District itself as a new investor can certainly be done, but a) prices are going to be higher than surrounding areas so for the same amount of money to spend you're going to do less houses, and b) it's harder to comp properties- DC property values can often vary block by block, proximity to metro station matters, finishes matter, whether or not they've 'dug out' the basement to increase ceiling height matters, the exterior style of property- federal, victorian, etc matters.  

West Oakland is a great bet.

I would not bet on that to happen though not impossible.All those potential scenarios are correct, appraisals or length of loan, equity are all factors. 

LillieProbably your best bet if looking specifically for landlords in Columbus is http://ohiolandlordassociation.com or if general, search for landlords on BiggerPockets

This forum is a really great platform to network and gather useful knowledge.