17 Years in, the space is much different now than it was. 

Go after your "why" and what will work for your family, remember this is not a one size fits all journey, everyone's looks different.

I'd rather create a business than get money from referrals, one loses steam the former can grow in so many different ways.I always hear people tell me how to get wealthy.

BC and AB are also different in how you purchase places and rental rules. 

Hire at least two different inspectors.And the sidewalk became an issue.

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?

@Ryan Holtz the Midwest offers many cities that will lead to cashflow on a purchase with 20-2% down.The challenge is YOU understanding the differences between Class A, B & C, so you invest wisely and your expectations are met.You'll probably want to target Class B or C for cashflow, but make SURE you understand the pro & con differences.

Purchase price: $531,000 1st home where I lived in main unit, and rented the 2 bedroom above.

When you counter, make 3 different offers.

Identify actual buyer who is willing/able to pay at least negotiated price, plus finder/transfer fee ($5-10k, for example); create a contract with end-buyer that identifies finder/transfer fee, agreement to complete purchase, and assigns difference (if any) of contract price and end-buyer price to self4.