Out of state market research: top five factors to consider?

[Chris Stromdahl]

I am in the process of looking at 37 separate counties throughout the US to focus on.

Initially, my wife and I are working together to research each of them at a 30K foot level.

My question is this:

Once we have narrowed our selection, what are the top five factors that you use to asses the potential a market has?

Example:

• Population growth
• Infrastructure build out plans
• Businesses moving to the area
• Crime
• Buy to rent ratios
• SF to MF ratios

And, what are some online resources that you use to do the research?

I intend, through trial and error, to put together a systematic process for completing this. I would like to be able to share it with any/all REI that have the same questions.

Thanks, Chris