New member - How to choose the right city?

[Harsha R.]

Hi all,

I am real estate enthusiast here to learn from the experienced - everything, from how to get started to how to continue doing it right. I am currently trying to decide the right city to begin RE investments in. I live in Atlanta, GA; but am not keen on starting in Atlanta, if there are better options. My job is transferrable, and I'd rather move to a city where my investment prospects are greater.

How do I go about choosing the right city and what data sources do I take advantage of in making this decisions? Further, what data should I really be looking at to make the right decision? If there are reliable sources/research available, kindly guide me or direct me. Thanks.

My investment goals are to buy rental properties and would personally prefer a bigger city in the warmer climates, with a diverse population and good job market.