@Jay SmithThis is a great example of why screening frameworks have to be adjusted by market.

The “Never Sell” framework is an endgame strategy.

Think of it like this: if a $2,500 cage prevents a $6,000 compressor replacement or repeated theft, it’s not optional.The simple framework I’d use (so you don’t get wrecked)If you’re chasing $50k–$90k houses, expect higher risk + higher management intensity.If you buy in the $130k–$200k range (often 3/2 brick ranch territory), you usually get a better balance: still cash flow potential, fewer headaches, better tenants, better resale.If you’re new to Columbus, do this before buying anythingSpend one day driving neighborhoods (or do a video drive with a local PM/agent)Underwrite with real numbers:insurance quote in handvacancy (at least 5–8%)repairs/CapEx reservesproperty management (even if you self-manage)Avoid buying your first deal sight unseen.If you want, I can share a quick “starter buy box” by zip code and property type (cash flow vs stability), but the big takeaway is: Columbus can work, just don’t buy the cheapest thing on the map and expect it to behave.

In Sept 2025, I used the settlements from a divorce to purchase a 3/2 SFH with the plan of turning it into a rental in the near future.

The 70% rule is a starting framework, but it really depends on your specific exit strategy and holding costs.

Even if you’re just practicing analysis right now, getting that framework in place can save a lot of time and mistakes.You’re on the right track — analyzing deals before you buy is exactly how you win long term.

I don't think anything has changed. 1) Ensure the borrower has the ability and exit strategy to pay the loan back, 2) Ensure the borrower has a history of paying their bills (we pull credit), and 3) We pay attention to not only the LTV and not overleverage, but we make sure there aren't any significant defects in the collateral (environmental issues, settlement issues, title issues, etc).

Ken's framework is solid and the points about looking beyond the refi moment are crucial.Building on the ARV verification discussion above - the 3-6 comps within half mile and 90 days is the gold standard but it can be hard to find that many matches in some neighborhoods.

Framework your offer with a kind of coversheet, which explains why your offer is a legit fair offer, how you came to it, which touches on how there operating in fantasy land. 

This does come up with older homes in the Southeast, especially crawl-space construction.In many cases, some amount of sagging or uneven floors is simply a function of age, original construction standards, and long-term settlement, not necessarily a structural failure.