In today’s fast-moving markets, numbers are everywhere prices, percentages, growth rates and comparisons.

If you’re just getting started and want a comparison, one market that a lot of folks are finding easier to underwrite for long-term cash flow is Columbus, Ohio, because the macroeconomics there are strong with population and job growth, major companies investing and expanding, and you can still find properties that hit the 1% rule and positive cash flow without relying on occupancy swings that STR can bring.

Supply is still the bottleneck.Let’s break down what actually matters heading into spring 2026.PCE Inflation Runs Hotter Than ForecastDecember’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) report — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge — came in slightly above expectations.Headline inflation: +0.4% for the month, 2.9% annuallyCore inflation: +0.4% for the month, 3.0% annuallyStreaming services jumped nearly 20% in December, adding unusual pressure to the monthly number.What this means for mortgage rates:Inflation is still above the Fed’s 2% target, which keeps policymakers cautious on rate cuts.However — context matters.Higher inflation readings from early 2025 will soon roll off the annual comparison.

For many of my clients, the premium difference ends up being about buying smoother claims handling and fewer unknowns.If you’d like, I’d be happy to:Review what you’re currently carryingIdentify potential exposure gapsRun a quick scenario comparison so you can see where the real differences areNo pressure either way — just making sure you’re making a decision with full clarity.Out of curiosity, how many doors are you operating right now?

I think it completely depends on what other landlords are advertising, and this can vary by area or by year.Tenants are trying to comparison shop and understand their total cost. 

@Liang Xu I am unsure on if there are any fee changes to it compared to the normal once a month payment, but you can always ask to see a comparison from the lender.

I’m a licensed NC Realtor and General Contractor working primarily on investor-driven residential projects, including infill, redevelopment, and ground-up construction.I respect the approach of giving sellers clear comparisons between a cash disposition and a traditional MLS sale.

The monthly cash flow comparison misses the whole picture which is why so many newer investors pass on solid house hacks.One thing I would add for Exeter specifically is the rent growth angle.

Price Comparison: KC vs.

Obviously I'm asking cuz I don't know the drawbacks and benefits in comparison RentRedi challenges already covered by @Stuart Udis