So is the 175K value the stable value (fixed up)?

I've got some family ties to the area, and the rental demand seems pretty stable with the university, hospital, and state govt in town.

You should expect a company that utilizes technology and people to provide a stable investment with reliable and predictable returns and great communication.  

I do not know J Scott, I've never talked to him, I have no plans to do business with him, but the book is like a giant exclamation point in the extensive shelf of mediocrities on the subject."

Higher cap rates tend to be found in markets with less rent growth, less stable occupancy, weaker fundamentals, tertiary markets (where there are fewer buyers--and will still have fewer buyers when you want to sell), lesser tenant quality, less availability of financing (higher down payments and/or higher interest rates) etc.  

I currently pay $1500 a month in total debt and have finally reached a stable enough place where I can put an extra $900 towards my debt.

Columbia is the capitol city, there are several universities here including USC and we have a stable economy. 

I am moving from Oklahoma City to Pittsburgh and want to know which market would be more stable for a rental property?

My other option is to buy rental in Eastern MA (I have started to go to Meetups in that area and it seems much more stable than CT), or RI as both areas are within a 1 hr drive.

In comparison to the rest of north Texas, the area hasn't seemed to appreciate as rapidly but definitely has been stable throughout the past 10 years.