Choosing Suitable Areas to Invest In

[Account Closed]

When looking at areas to focus on to source deals, what are the qualities of suitable areas/neighborhoods? From browsing BP and doing other research I have a general understanding although much of the advice I have found is vague and the same can be said about many areas. I need specifics - specific attributes, methods and ways of obtaining data to quantify. I'll be looking for motivated sellers and will be buying (and possibly improving) to rent or otherwise flipping, depending on the situation. 

Also, is there a preferred maximum driving time after which one should not consider investing? I have heard that in general, one should stick to areas no more than 30-45 minutes away from your primary residence. 

Thanks.

[Joe Villeneuve]

Money.  Low cost to get in...and don't mistake the asking price as your way of measuring the "low cost", and high cash flow and/or profit when I flip my cash though it.