Market analysis tools or websites

[Wallace Zhou]

I just want to find out what tools or websites do you use to analysis an area where you are completely unfamiliar with? The reason behind my question is that I am currently started to looking into market outside of southern CA. Since I have a CA real estate license, I join the local real estate association which I can have access to the MLS of the southern CA area. However, when it comes to the area outside of my area ( for example, northern CA or midwest of the country), it is quite hard to collect the data or run CMA. I do know that there are several websites such as zillow or redfin out there I can use to look at data, however, I found them hard to use VS. MLS. Anyone can help me out and point me to a better tools or website?

[Sterling White]

I am unaware of the other markets you mentioned @Wallace Zhou. I buy & hold in the Indiana market, which is great for cash flow, however our appreciation is pretty steady. Nowhere near CA of course, but I am a cash flow guy so different strategy. 

Money can be made in just about every market it's just about which market aligns best with your investing strategy.

Your're not expecting to much in my opinion