Investment also spiked in Class A Short-Term Rentals (STR) and investors started paying higher and higher prices based upon anticipated STR rental rates, that exceeded sustainability based upon Long-Term Rental rates (LTR).

After 45 years as an investor in real estate, REITs, limited partnerships, businesses and as a general partner in real estate and mortgage note syndications, as well as manager of real estate funds and high yield mortgage funds, I can tell you that the number one component of long term, sustainable investment success is STAYING POWER.  

Having written guidelines, curfews, and systems for accountability (like drug/alcohol testing and peer support) helps keep the environment safe and structured.Strong Leadership & Support System: Whether it’s you or a hired house manager, there needs to be someone onsite (or very involved) who can enforce rules fairly and offer support when residents struggle.Financial Sustainability: Think through how you’ll cover costs (rent, utilities, staff, food, etc.) while keeping rates fair for residents.

Also, these are not easy portfolios to sustain over time due to the upkeep and maintenance challenges.

With elevated interest costs, insurance and construction/ other misc. opex, it's become more difficult to sustain these SFH's long enough to enjoy the appreciation.

Basically, cash flow is what makes rental real estate sustainable and allows you to exit at the most opportune time.

Hmmm, it made world wide news, but okay "Cincinnati beatdown"A violent street brawl erupted in downtown Cincinnati on the early morning of July 26, 2025, at the corner of Fourth and Elm Streets, resulting in six civilians being injured, including a woman identified as Holly who sustained life-altering brain damage and a severe concussion after attempting to intervene. 

I recommend you have an in-depth discussion with your lender before executing on this plan to make sure you do so in a compliant manner; otherwise, the DSCR lender will likely be able to determine you to be in technical default. 

But what sets Columbus apart is the diversity of its economy (healthcare, education, logistics, and an expanding tech sector) combined with the speed of neighborhood revitalization across multiple submarkets.So while affordability + growth exists elsewhere in pockets, Columbus really stands out for how consistently and sustainably it’s playing out citywide.That’s exactly what makes Columbus so compelling right now.

Real estate investing can be approached in a similar manner, balancing cashflow vs appreciation and Class A, B, C, D for risk.