I’m based in Columbus and own 10+ rentals here, and we’ve seen a lot of investors do well with Section 8 because the rent payments are consistent and you often get higher-than-market rates in certain zip codes.

If you think for a moment you can get away with it and post for rent ads and not have at least one neighbor report you for code enforcement you're delusional. 

Specifically, shoot for more than generic advice and look for people or firms with expertise in the product type, tenant class, and zip code(s) you’re after.

We once decided to replace the windows and a house that we were flipping, and it ended up costing us an extra $50,000 because it turns out we had to bring the new windows up to current code - which involved adjusting the height of the windows in the room to meet fire code requirements, as well as the windows being properly strapped into the framing of the house, which was quite different from when the originals were originally installed in 1925!  

Step 2: Schedule the Pre-Move-Out InspectionCalifornia Civil Code §1950.5 requires you to offer the tenant a pre-move-out inspection no more than two weeks before they leave.

You can filter by region, see top-performing zip codes, and estimate what certain properties might make on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

Short term rentals have a lower hour bar to clear. 

Once you feel confident in a market, then start interviewing agents and PMs — and the good ones will know exactly which zip codes to target (and avoid).

I’m currently working toward my first BRRRR deal, with a focus on value-add rental properties that align with the Section 8 HCV Program.I’ve been learning from experienced operators who specialize in affordable housing, and I’m looking to build a long-term portfolio of cash-flowing properties across key zip codes in the city.

Recently, I helped a client avoid a 3 month permit delay by redesigning their plans to meet city code on the first submission.