Additionally, many loans are tied in with the government and by concealing the transaction from the bank, the insurance company, and the government without full disclosure you might be breaking the law.

We have been starting to get up to speed on the tax laws pertaining to commercial real estate and don't want to rush into any investment, but at the same time we know that bonus depreciation is only at 60% this year and is being phased out.

My goal is to invest within my local markets, but I'm open to out-of-state with the Bay Area being so expensive.

Maybe a giftcard to a local restaurant or just about anything.

To create leases, Rocket Lawyer or LegalZoom provide customizable templates compliant with Ohio laws.Also, check out the "Real Estate Rookie" podcast for a great episode on tenant screening, which can provide more detailed insights.Joining local real estate groups can also offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.

The Airbnb calculator estimated higher returns than in most places I've looked, as did local property managers.

Find a few GC's local to the market you're interested in. 

I don't know if States have different laws, but that is something you would have to ask an attorney.

Which market to lend in, that states foreclosure and usury laws, do you have trustworthy boots on the ground there, and can you handle a default situation if and when it happens? 

I have a local Facebook group with 99k members and it's just a group for our town.