It sounds like paying 1 point to buy down the interest rate would be your best bet in order to meet the DSCR, as it seems the most cost effective strategy for your goal (keep as much cash in the bank).

Do you go with where is popular now and face all the competition or are more stable markets also candidates?  

Find one in your area - I bet you there are several and they’ll more than pay for themselves.

Round Rock has been a popular investing location for awhile because of the family friendly attractions there like Kalahari.

Yet I'm still too chicken to cash this house out and get an apartment building or something in a cheaper part of the country.Couldn't I hedge my bet though by refinancing $200K or so out to make some Midwest moves?

Wait I bet you will tell them..

It is a safe bet to say between $100-$200 monthly.

STR properties are starting to become more and more popular in Columbus @Elaina Biffle

We have several drivable areas (Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge, etc. which seem extremely popular in these forums), however we prefer not to purchase in the mountains.

“One of my most popular blog articles describes how most small landlords are not required to file 1099s for work done on their properties.