I didn't want to put this all in one response, but below is the method which was used to build the original article:MethodologyIn order to determine the best real-estate markets, WalletHub compared 300 cities across two key dimensions, “Real-Estate Market” and “Affordability & Economic Environment.”We evaluated those dimensions using 22 relevant metrics, which are listed below with their corresponding weights.

We wanted to do the same basic thing in the augusta area with some waterfront property and are just starting to educate ourselves here on bigger pockets.Please keep us up to date on the progress.

And of course a personal guarantee, for whatever that may be worth  YOU have to evaluate the potential “equity”.  

However...it's always advisable to evaluate the worst-case scenario in this situation and evaluate if you should co-sign based on that...Alternatively, you could buy the house and then turn around and "rent-to-own" to your friend. 

When you are new go to as many properties as you can and evaluate them.

Great progress!

First draw I requested took 3 weeks to receive, second draw took a month and this third draw they have refused to release halting my progress.

@Dave DeMarco thanks so much for your advice, it seems I need to do some goal setting, and evaluating the end game.

Would Cash over Cash or the 50% rule be better metrics to evaluate with?

But yes for one property the solution that gets you maybe 85% of the way without the geometric progression in costs is probably an LLC owned by a trust.