I'll add one angle specific to out-of-state ownership in Ohio: make sure your management agreement includes clear legal compliance provisions.Ohio has some landlord-friendly aspects, but there are specific requirements that trip up out-of-state owners:Key Ohio-specific items to confirm your PM handles:Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 properties) - Ohio takes this seriously, and violations can be costlySecurity deposit accounting - Ohio requires deposits be held separately and returned within 30 days with itemized deductionsCleveland-specific ordinances - If your property is in Cleveland proper (vs. suburbs), there are city rental registration requirements and inspection programsEviction timeline management - Ohio's process is relatively fast (30-45 days typically), but only if done correctly from day oneContract provisions to insist on:- Written confirmation they're handling all required notifications (lead paint, security deposit interest if applicable, move-in/move-out documentation)- Proof of Ohio real estate license (required to manage properties for others for a fee)- Clear delineation of who handles legal filings if eviction is needed - some PMs coordinate but don't file; you want to know upfrontOne practical question to ask during interviews:"Walk me through how you handle a tenant who's 5 days past due on rent in Cleveland - what's your exact process and timeline?"

That includes rent, late fees, damages, utilities (if applicable), legal fees, and any lease break costs.No “notice required” clauses.The guaranty should explicitly say the landlord is not required to notify the co-signer of tenant default before pursuing payment.

I didn't go through with the formal application because it would be a credit hit.

@Aaron Zimmerman I have a strong background in sales and have been searching around the job market seems tough right now so I havent heard anything concrete back with over 100+ applications sent.

Although the Mallet-McCann study included various real estate types, the conclusions are still applicable to the multifamily model for comparison purposes.

An example for easy math of a DSCR 1.2 ratio would be $1,200 of rent to $1,000 of expenses (the expenses that lenders consider generally for DSCR loans on 1-4 units are the new mortgage, property taxes and insurance (HOA if applicable).

Look into these topics to grow as an investor and throughout time you will find your niche investment strategy but these will be applicable in most.Property managementUnder writing or deal analysis Deal findingMarket researchLending

It makes sense they push below market rents so listings get flooded with applications and it’s easy to find “safe” tenants.Not saying Belong Home property management is bad, just very conservative and system driven.

If I say the name, the moderators have to delete my post for self promotion (I get it) My software connects to all of the top-rated smart locks and many do not require Wi-fi for full remote access control. 

Is your DSCR ratio greater than 1-meaning are you cash flowing (according to the lender's criteria of mortgage, property taxes and insurance (and HOA) if applicable).