Hello Ryan, I was looking in those markets because my local Dover/ New Philadelphia area is small so there's not as many options available.

There are alternate money options as well. 

Take the time to assess your readiness, explore your options, and make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term goals.

If you start thinking about more of an appreciation/cashflow combo play, Columbus is a great option for you, especially since it's only couple of hours away from Cleveland. 

Building homes is fulfilling and lucrative but I often feel like my days are spent just chasing down contractors and materials, and pointing out everything that is wrong with work that has been completed.Over the last ~6 months I thought long and hard about all my options.

I'm looking into a few different loan options.

These lenders often have more experience and flexibility with properties that include ADUs and JADUs.Community Banks and Credit Unions: Local community banks and credit unions may be more willing to work with you, especially if they have a better understanding of the local real estate market and the value ADUs and JADUs bring to a property.Mortgage Brokers: A mortgage broker may have access to a wider range of lending options and could help you find a lender willing to consider your property.

Hey Les, are you looking at traditional financing to use increased leverage or would you be going with a 20% down option?

If that sounds like a lot of work, it is, but that's what seasoned investors do.The other option is to invest OOS, but that also has risks.

For example, exploring options like PadSplit for shared housing or MTR strategies could provide avenues to achieve the 1% rule or better.