I suggest picking a method that aligns with your risk appetite and time commitment then slowly growing from there.Good luck!

.• Refi lender alignment upfront — some lenders get picky if the purchase was auction + rapid value jump, so confirming appraisal approach and seasoning rules ahead of time is key.• Exit flexibility — having a backup (DSCR refi, partial cash-in, or longer-term bridge extension) in case rates or underwriting shift.In practice, I’ve seen this work best when the numbers still pencil conservatively before assuming top-of-market refi value.Are these in-state for you, or out-of-state auctions?

For example, if you are looking at two homes at the same price point and one is a newer build with more depreciable components and a smaller land allocation, that could mean tens of thousands more in bonus depreciation.

The costs are the costs—foundations, lumber, and core building components do not get cheaper just because it is an entry-level product.

No advice, I just align closely with your situation.

As a CPA, why would you not also recommend she divide up the component costs of the renovation(ie cost of cabinets, floors, etc) into separate depreciable components, getting 80-90% of the benefit of a renovation cost seg without the cost?

MTR and STR have a hospitality component that LTRs don't. 

A cost segregation study can significantly accelerate depreciation by breaking down your property into shorter-life components (like appliances, cabinetry, flooring, etc.), allowing you to claim larger deductions up front—potentially through 100% bonus depreciation if applicable for your tax year.

For newly constructed, purchased or renovated properties and also retroactive generally over the last 10 years, building components are properly classified into individual units of property and accurate recovery periods for computing depreciation deductions.

I’m also interested in learning more about any local networking groups, masterminds, coaching programs, or investor communities that are strong in Columbus.Since my background is Cleveland, I’m approaching Columbus with a serious, long term mindset and want to make sure I’m aligned with the right teams and market intelligence before scaling there.If you are actively investing in Columbus multifamily or know someone who is, feel free to comment here or message me.