Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH

[Chad B.]

Hello BP family, I have a few questions I'd like to throw out there for you seasoned vets and newbies. I have a $30k budget (cash, not home sale price) to purchase my first rental. My initial research has led me to wanting to utilize the BRRRR method as I like the idea of pulling my cash back out and repeating the process to grow my portfolio. My questions: - What are some recommended neighborhoods/zips to buy properties in knowing my total out of pocket max of $30k? (I have reserves above my budget) - Should I avoid condos? - What are your thoughts about the James rd. area just north of I-70 and south of Broad St.? There seem to be a handful of properties on the market right off James rd and the area seems safe enough that I don't see bars on the windows or a lot of people just 'hanging out' when I drive by. - I will be using a GC to do most/all rehab, should I consider a more expensive property that requires less rehab? Meaning less BRRRR method and more Buy and Hold. - Is anyone willing to share GC recommendations? Thank you!

[Brian Jordan]

If your intentions are to refi out and repeat, I'd find your lender first and see what they're criteria are regarding what types of properties they'll lend on. It's possible that some lenders may have an ARV minimum. I'm not as knowledgeable about the financing side as I am about areas, projected rents and the remodeling side of the properties. I'd do have a GC I can recommend though. PM me your email and I'll send you his info. Best of luck!