Newbie-ish Columbus, OH

[Steven Duby]

Hello All,

Not technically a newbie but this is my first post. I've been listening/reading BP for over a year now and I'm stoked to finally be in search for my first investment property. I recently accepted a job offer in Dublin, OH which I will start this January upon graduation in December from the University of Toledo. My girlfriend graduates this May from Ohio State and has a job lined up in Columbus upon her graduation. With that being said, we are looking to buy this January. Our strategy is to get a FHA and househack a duplex in the Columbus area. I just wanted to ask if there are certain areas any Columbus investors recommend staying away from, or if there are areas with a lot of investment opportunities. I've done some due diligence but I feel it is more effective to talk with other investors directly.

I know I have left a lot of details out of this post, but I'm not exactly sure where I stand with banks yet. We will be making good money as soon as we both graduate but we will also have a combined 30 grand of student loan debt. Definitely open to any advice at this point.

Also, I know I will be looking to join local meet-ups as soon as I arrive in Columbus.

Thanks for reading and all of your help!

Steven Duby

[Matt Stewart]

@Steven Duby  First of all, congrats!  Sounds like you've got some hard work in and it's starting to pay off!

I would avoid the Hilltop area and anything in the 43227 zip code.  That's broadbrushing it, and chances are you'd be looking at a higher priced property anyway.  Find a good Realtor, there's a few on here from the Columbus area that will put you on the right areas.