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BlogArrowReal Estate Deal Analysis & AdviceArrow8 Ways to Identify the Best Places to Buy Rental Property
Real Estate Deal Analysis & Advice

8 Ways to Identify the Best Places to Buy Rental Property

Jay Chang
Expertise: Real Estate Investing Basics
16 Articles Written
close up view of upper level windows and roofs on four row homes

How do you find a market with high and steady rental growth for the next decade? If you’re simply searching for markets with the highest rental growth for the past few years, then you’re starting off on the wrong foot .

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A strong past performance in rental growth doesn’t guarantee a strong future performance.

You need to pay attention to the fundamentals that are driving the rental growth. Sometimes the fundamentals are there, but the rental growth hasn’t started yet. Those are the hidden gems that you want to invest in.

Investing in a real estate market solely based on strong historical performance is like blindly buying a growth stock. The investment has been doing well, but it can turn sour very quickly when the demand decreases. Like how people sell their stocks when they think the company is becoming overvalued, residents can get priced out of a market when the city becomes unaffordable.

Here are eight fundamentals to explore that will help you spot the best real estate markets.

Note: It’s always a good idea to cross reference the statistics by using different websites or resources as a double-check.

8 Factors to Focus on When Searching for a Great Market

  1. Population Growth

What to look for: Cities with 1.5 percent minimum year-over-year (YoY) growth for the past two decades and more than 100,000 people.

Resources: US Census, Data USA, City-Data or Google

When I was first researching for a market that I’d like to invest in, I looked at population growth as my first step, because it’s great for narrowing down the list. Rank the cities with more than 100,000 people from highest to lowest YoY growth in the last decade, and then look for 10 markets that you’re interested in. Markets where relatives or friends are living or those that are located near you should be high on your list.

  1. Household Income Growth

What to look for: Household income growing at 1 percent minimum YoY for the past two decades.

Resources: US Census, City-Data, or Data USA

Without substantial household income growth, there won’t be healthy rental growth. If a city has a strong rental income growth but a weak household income growth, then it’s a sign that its residents are getting priced out of the market. The population growth will start slowing down.

Related: How to Choose the Best Markets for Real Estate Investing

  1. Crime Rate

What to look for: A crime index that has been decreasing consistently for a decade.

Resources: City-Data (If you know another good website for cross-reference, please comment below.)

A decreasing crime index is a sign that the city is improving. Companies also study the crime index to make sure that their office locations are attractive to workers, especially those with families.

  1. Household Income to Rent Ratio

What to look for: Minimum current median household income to median rent ratio is 4x or more.

Resources: US-Census, Data USA, City-Data, HUDuser.gov

This is a great metric for measuring affordability in the area. Make sure you use median, not average, because high household incomes can significantly affect the average.

  1. Employment Growth

What to look for: Minimum employment growth of 2 percent YoY for the past two decades.

Resources: Data USA, HUDuser.gov

Employment growth is a key indicator of the economy. A growing population is not sustainable without good employment growth. However, you should find out what sectors or companies are growing and whether the growth will continue or stop.

For example, a factory that manufactures Boeing Max 737 airplanes—probably not going to grow…

Related: 4 Things to Understand BEFORE Investing in Markets with Declining Populations

  1. Employment Diversity

What to look for: Compare current local employment ratio to national employment ratio.

Resources: Data USA, City-Data, HUDuser.gov

You should look for cities with good diversity in terms of employment. This means the city’s local ratio should be within a few percent of the national average across all industries.

You want employment diversity to mitigate risks associated with certain industries declining.

For example, in Wichita City, Kan., 18.3 percent of jobs are in manufacturing, but the national manufacturing job ratio was only 7.9 percent in 2016. This means that manufacturing is a significant industry in Wichita City. However, statistics show that the number of employees overall in Wichita City has been declining.

I personally wouldn’t worry if the local employment ratio is higher for the education or professional services sectors, because I think these two are either stable or have a great long-term outlook.

  1. Median House Value

What to look for: Look for 2.5 percent YoY growth in median house value in the past two decades.

Resources: Data USA or City-Data

This is a good indicator of the overall wealth in the city.

Additionally, if the median house value has been increasing consistently for 20 years, then that means it’s expensive to buy a house, forcing renters to stay renters longer.

  1. Landlord Friendly States

What to look for: Although this is not a deal-breaker, try to avoid states that have tough rent control and tenant eviction policies.

Resources: Rent Cafe or Google

If you've chosen a market that's not landlord friendly, then make sure you account for this in your underwriting and projections. Get with a seasoned property manager to understand realistically how quickly you can renovate your units and raise your rents.

The Bottom Line

Everyone does their market research a little differently, so I’d love to hear what additional statistics you look for.

Lastly, I have an Excel worksheet that can help you get started available for download here.

What’s missing from the list above? 

Add to it in the comment section below.

By Jay Chang
Jay Chang, a civil engineering graduate from UCLA, is an active investor, developer, writer, and Founder of Hestia Capital. He moved to Phnom Penh, Cambodia in 2020 and is now investing in real estate and other business opportunities in both the U.S. and Cambodia. Before starting his own business, Jay worked at CIM Group and Pankow Builders as a construction manager. He's also part of the real estate investment group called MultifamilyMasters. Jay aspires to develop projects that bring the communities together. When he has free time, he travels, plays basketball, and snowboards.
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141 Replies
    Jason Johnson Flipper/Rehabber from Lehi, UT
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info thanks for the tips!

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    Joe Anthony
    Replied over 1 year ago
    This was very informative, thanks for your insights!

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    Stan Johnson Rental Property Investor from NC
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks! I will definitely keep this information in my back pocket

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    Carnet Williams Rental Property Investor from Sausalito, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I’d love the spreadsheet please. How do I message you?

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    Shan Vincent
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would love the spreadsheet too please. [email protected] I appreciate the info so much! Great article!

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    Winnie Mullins Rental Property Investor from Jersey City, New Jersey
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for the insightful tips. I will definitely put your spreadsheet TU use.

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    Sherrie Zhou Flipper/Rehabber from Ontario, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hello Jay, thanks for the informative article and sharing your expertise with us. Can you shave the “Excel worksheet” that can help me get started? My e-mail address is [email protected] Thanks a bunch! Sherrie Zhou

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    Leo Saavedra Rental Property Investor from Sacramento, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article, Jay! I would also love to have the spread sheet. Here is my email [email protected]

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    Justin Ross
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Awesome read! Would love the spreadsheet too! [email protected]

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    Nathan Poznick Realtor from Los Angeles
    Replied over 1 year ago
    A lot of good stuff here. Thanks Jay! If you can share the spreadsheet I’d love to see it. [email protected]

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    Thuy Tien Ton Nu
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, Great tips! Thank you for sharing. Can you email me the spreadsheet please. My email is [email protected]

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    Marci Mayes Real Estate Broker from Willis, TX
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks, Jay! I would love the spreadsheet. Please email to [email protected] Thanks!

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    Kan Ying
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi, Jay, great article as always. Thanks for sharing the spreadsheet. Could you email it to me please. My email is [email protected]

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    Amy C. from Philadelphia, PA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would appreciate the spreadsheet also. I am surrounded by engineers and absolutely trust your logical approach! Thanks! Email is: [email protected]

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    Jessica Martinez
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I’d love the spreadsheet please. [email protected]

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    Kelly Mac Flipper/Rehabber
    Replied over 1 year ago
    spreadsheet pls ? TY ! [email protected]

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    Cameron Tope Property Manager from Katy, TX
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info! Thanks for sharing!

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    Oliver Leonetti from Portland
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Excellent Post thank you! I'd love the spreadsheet as well. [email protected]

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    Mel Gutic
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info. I'd love a Spreadsheet . [email protected]

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    Carmen Mariscal Investor from Miami, FL
    Replied over 1 year ago
    great article. Would appreciate if you shared your spreadsheet w me. [email protected]

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    Zayd Alameddine
    Replied over 1 year ago
    hi id love the spreadsheet my email is [email protected]

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    Larry Fried Investor/RE Broker from Eugene, OR
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Very good info for analysis. I do wonder in today's markets, if any good cash flowing markets for SFR meet all the criteria you have laid out.
    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I have many friends investing in Columbus, OH. I think the cap there is about 6% to 7%. Very decent cap. Be careful, and don't become obsessed with high cap rate. Properties in high cap rate are harder to sell, because you make less money through renovation/flipping! There are many good markets, just need to do your due diligence on the market. Good luck!!

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    Joel Rosa from Lawrence, Massachusetts
    Replied over 1 year ago
    These are some great points Jay. Thank you for taking out the time to write this for us. Truly appreciate it. And of course I would love the spreadsheet as well :). [email protected]

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    Mo Brown Investor from Tucson, Arizona
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article. I live in Tucson and am doing some investing in in the area and in Florida. Please send me a copy of the spreadsheet. My email is [email protected] Thanks

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    Kevin Powell
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for the info, could please send a copy of your spreadsheet [email protected]

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    Dominic Martinez Rental Property Investor from Las Vegas, NV
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info and thank you! Would love to connect with you. Your spreadsheet would be extemely helpful. My email: [email protected]

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    Yamil Tapia
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info. The factors you consider to make a logical decision on selecting a market. You stated to analyze the trend for two decades. If there is a potential shift for a short period of time in that particular market. How do you handle the interruption?
    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hey Yamil, My suggestion is to understand what caused the potential shift. Maybe it has to do with a global recession? For example, I wouldn't worry about household income dropping for a few years between 2008-2010, but I'd raise a flag if it's a continuous decline between 2008-2015, for example. It's important to not be bothered down by the small noise, but pay great attention to the trend and the potential shift! What's your email address?

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    Yamil Tapia
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Would like to view the spreadsheet.

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    Colin Burke from Bozeman, MT
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great read! Could you please send the spreadsheet to [email protected]

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    Ash Bisaria from Cary, North Carolina
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Excellent tips.. Practical advise.. Could you please send the spreadsheet to [email protected]

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    John Francis
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Please send spreadsheet to [email protected] Thanks!

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    Mary Jane Cuevas
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hey Jay, how can I get the spreadsheet?
    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Mary, What's your email address?

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    Stephen Holloway Investor from Oakland, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, good article! Would like to get a copy of the spreadsheet.

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    Dana Nance
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great Info- I would like to excel some of the areas -10 yrs. in the market is a stretch as I’m in Arizona. Could you send me the [email protected]

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    Michael Liebrum Contractor from Weatherford, TX
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you Jay for sharing this very helpful information! I appreciate you sharing these tips. I would also like the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Account Closed
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Joe. Super logical and informative. Thank you for taking the time to share. I'd be interested in the spreadsheet if you care to share. [email protected] Thank you!

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    Swapnil U Chogle
    Replied over 1 year ago
    thank you for the great info. would the spreadsheet. please send it to [email protected]

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    Sherry Pruitt
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great information. Can I get the spreadsheet. Thank you. [email protected]

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    Keeley Nielsen
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article. I’d love a copy of the spreadsheet.

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    Don H. Rental Property Investor from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hey Jay, Great article...Would appreciate if you shared your rental spreadsheet. [email protected] Thank you..

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    Jason Cave
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi jay great article. Can you send me the spreadsheet at [email protected]

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    Giridhar Kumar from Fremont, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would be interested in the spreadsheet. Thanks

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    Robert Perez from Ventura, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you for the article Jay. I would like a copy of the spreadsheet. [email protected] or message Robert Perez through bigger pockets. Thank you.

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    Chak Pal
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article!! Please send me a copy of the spreadsheet to [email protected] Thanks

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    Eliot Houman from Los Angeles, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would love a copy too. [email protected] Many thanks.

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    Neita Littleton
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Jay, enjoyed your article! Definitely would love the spreadsheet: [email protected] Thanks so much!

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    Ehsan Srour
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi I would like a copy too. Thanks

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    Tariq Khan Rental Property Investor from Orange County, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hello Jay, would love to review and learn from your spreadsheet. My email is; [email protected] Thx!

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    Heather Wilson
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you, Jay! This is a very timely and informative article, as my husband and I are deciding on our market right now for our first investment. Like so many others replying, I, too, would love the spreadsheet. Perhaps making it available as a download would be easiest? E-mailing is also great: [email protected] I'm looking forward to using your spreadsheet, recommended sites and tips to evaluate the markets we are considering. Thank you!

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    Travis Beehler Rental Property Investor from Vancouver, WA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I'd love to have a copy of this spreadsheet too! Email me at [email protected] please? Thanks in advance!

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    Kristen Hanson from Kingman, Arizona
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks Jay for the great article! Would also love the spreadsheet: [email protected] Thanks!

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    Porsha Melcher
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I’d love a copy of the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Mitchell L. Residential Real Estate Broker from Dania, Florida
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article, please e-mail me the spreadsheet as well at your convenience: [email protected]

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    Stephen Cope Rental Property Investor from Mobile, AL
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I’d love to see your spreadsheet! Fantastic article and applicable to every type of RE investor. [email protected] Thanks!

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    Justin Lincoln
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for the info. Can I receive the spreadsheet at [email protected]

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    Kobe Nicholas
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for the great info! I’d appreciate the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Omid Farvili
    Replied over 1 year ago
    please provide me with that spreadsheet [email protected] thanks

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    Sunae Tom
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article...I’d like the spreadsheet as well, thank you! Email to [email protected]

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    Mike Arnold
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would like the spreadsheet. Thanks . [email protected]

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    Tom McGuire Investor from Daytona Beach, Florida
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Since no one has asked you for the spreadsheet yet, let me be the first. Thanks, so much. [email protected]

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    Dakota Coburn Rental Property Investor from Laconia, NH
    Replied over 1 year ago
    This is a great list. Thank you.

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    Eric B. New to Real Estate from Florida
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Man, you've hit a winning combination. Well written, great content, and compiled data! I've been trying to create a similar spreadsheet on my own and really was struggling. This couldn't have been a more timely article for me. [email protected] if you don't mind sending it out. If you're overwhelmed with the other requests, I appreciate that you included your sources so I can pull the data myself. Also, I tried to look into messaging you about your Out-of-State Multifamily Investors group. I, along with several people I work with, are all looking into joining something like this. A simple google search did not get me very far. Could you PM me with more info?

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    Harold Greene Investor from Indian Head, MD
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hello, Jay. Great article. May I have a copy of your spreadsheet emailed to me at: [email protected]? Thank you.

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    Cesarina Johnson
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Awesome article and I enjoyed every bit of it. I would appreciate if you can share the spreadsheet with me at [email protected]

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    Dakota Coburn Rental Property Investor from Laconia, NH
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would also love to see the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Jieun Lee from New York City, New York
    Replied over 1 year ago
    wow, this is an amazing insight! thank you, Jay! when you have a chance, i also would like your spreadsheet : [email protected]

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    Jon Wilson
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great insight. Please email your spreadsheet when you have a chance. [email protected] Thank you!

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    Joe Strese Investor from Omaha, NE
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay- great article! I’d be interested in the spreadsheet you mentioned. Thanks, Joe

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    Jaakko Mella from Aptos, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, I would also love to see the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Zirang Song
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, I just joined Bigger Pockets and this article is exactly what I am looking for. If I can get the spreadsheet, I would appreciate you very much. My email is [email protected]

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    Oded Levitt
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article Jay, i would be awesome if you can send that spreadsheet..

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    Carmen Bontrager
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I'd love a copy of the spreadsheet please! [email protected] tnx!!

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    Raul Gonzalez
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article with so much value for a beginner like myself. Can I please get a copy of the spreadsheet at [email protected]

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    Barata Arthur
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, Great article. I’d like a copy as well [email protected]

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    Ben Franco, Jr. from Corona, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, I would also love to see the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Cecilia Chafin
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great thoughts on the subject! Also, consider looking for the "path of progress." Look for areas where the area is growing into a certain area, like between 2 cities on a major artery. You'll get growth and increased value as well! I would very much like to look at your spreadsheet! [email protected] Thanks so much!

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    Baris Keser Real Estate Broker from West Palm Beach
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Very well put together Jay! Would love to see the spreadsheet. [email protected] is my email.

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    Jon Hezghia
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article, lot of nice points here. How would be I able to see the spreadsheet? Thanks!

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    Matthew Kontoff Rental Property Investor from Acton, MA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great article! Succinct and to the point. Thanks. Can you please send me your spreadsheet to [email protected] thank you.

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    T Saha
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Very good article. Would love to see the spreadsheet you mentioned. Thanks for sharing.

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    Robert Sadler
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Loved the article. Would you please send the spreadsheet to [email protected]

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    Daniel Hudson
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Loved the article. I would love a copy of the spreadsheet as well thank you. [email protected]

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    Kris Swords
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, thanks for the info. Can I get your spreadsheet as well [email protected], thank you.

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    Arya Feroz New to Real Estate from SF Bay Area
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, This was very informative! I’d also really appreciate getting the spreadsheet as well. [email protected]

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    Naema N. from La Grange, Illinois
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, thanks for the info, it is very informative, please do share the spreadsheet, if possible. [email protected] Thanks

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    Melissa Donnahoe Rental Property Investor from Coral Springs, FL
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you so much for the great insight. Would love a copy of the spreadsheet as well please. My email is [email protected] Thanks again!

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    Suresh K. Investor from Cupertino, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would like to see your spread sheet. My email [email protected]

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    Andy Nu
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I loved the post! Can you send me the spreadsheet? [email protected]

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    R Johnson
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Would love a spreadshere. [email protected] Thanks.

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    Brian Meskauskis Investor from Austin, TX
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Can you send me your excel sheet? Thanks from another Engineer but from Purdue :)

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    Deanne Bourne Investor from Concord, California
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would love the spreadsheet please. We just started a local investment group and I can share it at the meeting . Dene

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    AYana Morgan Specialist from Hartford, CT
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Jay, I loved the article and it was truly insightful. Can you please send me the spreadsheets @ [email protected] Thank you!

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    Jas Deepak Real Estate Broker from Walnut Creek, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great stuff. Please send me the spreadsheets - [email protected] Thanks!

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    Joshua Gutierrez Rental Property Investor from Costa Mesa, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you! I’d live the spreadsheet! [email protected]

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    AMANDA S. Rental Property Investor from Seattle, WA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I'd love a copy of your spreadsheet. PM me for my email please! :)

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    April King Investor
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks in advance for your spreadsheet!

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    Jason Chalifour Real Estate Investor from Surrey, British Columbia
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Landlord friendly states is one that many don't think of.... until you are forced to be reminded of it. GDP growth for an area is the initial kick off to a long term real estate growth cycle (GDP growth leads to employment grown, leads to population growth, to increased rental demand, to decreased vacancies, to increased rents, to increase purchase demand to increase property prices.... (REIN module)

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    Jim Schickling from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Jay, Great work man, just like everyone else said, thank you. Tons of useful information here. I would also like to receive a copy of the spreadsheet. Thanks again, Jim Schickling

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    Jeffrey Paul Ferlo
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Have been looking for an article like this to help me know where to invest. Thank you. I would like the spreadsheet. My email is jpf891305msul.com

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    Dominique Pradel-Lewis Investor from Pittsburgh PA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for the article. Messaging you for the Excel sheet

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    John Umphress from Austin, Texas
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Good article but I would suggest two other things to look at: how well a market has rebounded (population/job growth) following the recession and the rate of construction of dwelling units. I would be hesitant to invest in a market that is glutted with inventory unless I could get a smoking deal.

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    Vince Hordemann
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I'd love the spread sheet too! Thanks! My email is vince at amherstlegacy.com

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    Fitzroy Harvey New to Real Estate from Poughkeepsie, New York.
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I am looking to invest in Georgia and I really didn't know exactly what to look for other than good schools and low crime rate until now, so thank you again, man.

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    Douglas Gratz Rental Property Investor from Philadelphia, PA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    It’s a great article but what about people like me who invest in neighborhoods we know are not good , but havnt decreased or Increased much in value over the past decades. I do a lot of section 8 rentals receiving 1350 for a 3 bed 1 bath unit b of a duplex. I don’t see this topic covered much and what is a good investment when going in this direction?

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    Douglas Gratz Rental Property Investor from Philadelphia, PA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Post script- Because none of my houses really fit these requirements , ya know?

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    Grant Delmonte Rental Property Investor from Washington
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info! Thanks for sharing!

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    Katya Borisova
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info, how can we get access to the spreadsheet?

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    Jesse Dix Rental Property Investor from San Diego, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    I would love the spreadsheet! [email protected]

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    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi all, It's difficult to email everybody, so here is the link to download the file! https://www.hestia-capital.com/files Hope you all find it useful!

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    Zeke Tessmer Rental Property Investor from Australia
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great value in this article! I am definitely interested in your spreadshee!t if you have time to shoot it to [email protected] I would greatly appreciate it.

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    Wallenberg Scott
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info and insight. Please send me your spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Isaac Segovia from Rialto, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    This is a very helpful article. Thank you for the tips
    Isaac Segovia from Rialto, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Also, can you send me your spreadsheet as well? [email protected]

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    Tola Kehinde Rental Property Investor from Vaughan, ON
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Nice article Jay!..I would also love to have the spreadsheet.My email add is : [email protected]

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    Kyle Anderson-Mape Rental Property Investor from Palm Springs, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Jay - Thanks so much for this article! Great read and notes taken. All - For #3 Crime Rate - I use https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/ to assess each city I look into for out of state investing. Simply type your city into the search bar and the following page will show a banner tab labeled 'Crime.' Hope this helps! Kyle

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    Yiftach Tygiel
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great Article. Just what I was looking for. I'd also love the spreadsheet. many thanks in advance. [email protected]

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    Jeong Kim
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Good info! Thanks.

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    Adam Schroeder
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Would love to see the spreadsheet. [email protected]

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    Evan Brookman from Nashville
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for gathering that great info! Location is super important!

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    Dai Hai Ngo Rental Property Investor from Irvine, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thank you for sharing the great tips, Jay. I would love to have the spreadsheet as well. My email is [email protected]

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    Tommy Macfarlane from Boise, Idaho
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Informative article Jay! Well written with the sources. Thank you

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    Ben Crowley from Denville, New Jersey
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for this article. Could I get this spreadsheet too, please :- [email protected] Thank you

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    Cheryl Vargas Rental Property Investor from Rohnert Park, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Love these tips of yours!! I’d love to see your spreadsheet too!! Thanks!

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    Farzan Setayesh Rental Property Investor from Chicago, Illinois
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Great info..... Appreciated it. So buy in the area that rented can’t afford to buy so they keep renting? But, aren’t those area SO expensive (not affordable)? Pls email me your spreadsheet [email protected]

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    Ann Marie Giglio
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hey Jay, You just answered 8 of my beginner questions! Thank you for the rare specificity and the exact resources. Much appreciated. Please send your spreadsheet to: [email protected]

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    Harsh Patel
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Excellent article Jay. Can I please have your spreadsheet to [email protected]

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    Minerva Thomas from Boston, MA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Excelente post Jay, I want the spreadsheet. My email is [email protected] Thanks

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    Kang Lee from ANAHEIM CALIFORNIA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Thanks for great information

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    Terri Lowe from South Florida
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Awesome info! Very informative, concise and to the point, thank you for sharing. could you please email your spreadsheet [email protected]?
    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied over 1 year ago
    Hi Terri, you can download the spreadsheet on my website at hestia-capital.com! Good luck.

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    David Tripp Investor from Brea, CA
    Replied about 1 year ago
    Thanks so much for the great information and for the worksheet!

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    Allen Tracy from Chatsworth, CA
    Replied about 1 year ago
    Great information here, thanks!

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    Yu Liu New to Real Estate from Tallahassee
    Replied about 1 year ago
    Very informative! Thank you so much! One question though: what is your opinion on areas like LA, SF Bay Area in California and NYC?
    Jay Chang Developer from Los Angeles, CA
    Replied 12 months ago
    I wouldn't buy stabilized or renovated properties in those locations, because the cap rates are so low, the chances are the properties value will decrease significantly during the next downturn. I'd say there are still attractive value-add deals, but you have to look for them.

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    Debbra Brackett Investor from Carlsbad, California
    Replied 11 months ago
    Hi Jay! I'd love to connect with you on FB if you're there. Also do you still have that market selection spreadsheet to share? My email is [email protected] I'd also love to join a meetup. I'm in North San Diego (Carlsbad).

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    Sean Rose
    Replied 5 months ago
    Actually there's a link to your spreadsheet already, no need to email it to me. Thanks again Jay

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    Sunny S.
    Replied 2 months ago
    Thank you Jay!

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    Ken B. from yucca valley, ca
    Replied 12 days ago
    Thanks Jay, as always an excellent read. I'd really like a copy of your spread sheet.

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