Builders have been adding homes, but the pace still falls short of population growth.

@Laurie ReissFor your 12-unit Ohio deal, focus on these critical areas:Market Research: Analyze local demand drivers (job growth, population trends), household income, and vacancy rates.

Avoiding these types of deals will help you mitigate risk as you get started on your investing journey from CA.You should also look for signs of appreciation such as job growth, population growth, etc.

Major developments and mixed-use projects are driving strong demand.28083 – Cabarrus County- ROI: 7% | Vacancy: 8% Downtown Kannapolis is thriving thanks to biotech growth, revitalization projects, and family-friendly amenities like the Atrium Health Ballpark.28054 – Gaston County- ROI: 7% | Vacancy: 9% With the FUSE District expansion and more Charlotte commuters looking west, Gastonia is a prime opportunity with lower entry prices and solid appreciation.28092 – Lincoln County- ROI: 7% | Vacancy: 8% Lincolnton offers small-town charm, proximity to Lake Norman, and a growing remote workforce population.

I’d recommend starting with just three basics: population growth trends, job growth, and median home price vs. rent ratio.

I'm interested in a Class C, 27,000 sqft building in a down town area (population near 50k) that is owner finance.

Quote from @Mat Garcia: Obviously, the global human population is still growing.

What you’re describing — focusing on population density, demand for rentals, and cash flow — is a solid strategy.

Check out this chart: FICO Score Pct of Population Default Probability 800 or more 13.00% 1.00% 750-799 27.00% 1.00% 700-749 18.00% 4.40% 650-699 15.00% 8.90% 600-649 12.00% 15.80% 550-599 8.00% 22.50% 500-549 5.00% 28.40% Less than 499 2.00% 41.00% Source: Fair Isaac CompanyMake sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.Metro Detroit has 132 cities, the City of Detroit 183 Neighborhoods, which we’re analyzing and classifying. 

If you are trying to spot an up-and-coming neighborhood, study such things as  job growth, new infrastructure or commercial development, and population shifts.