They choose to invest remotely because their goal is long-term financial independence, which isn't achievable where they live.If you’d like a simple, repeatable way to evaluate cities for long-term income growth, I’m happy to share it.

If anyone ever wants a second set of eyes on a deal or has questions around operations, expenses, or lien evaluation, happy to talk. 

Using the advice from Brandon Turner's book, I've been trying to evaluate a deal a day to exercise the muscle.Considering housing prices in my area are quite high, I may try to relocate back to Minnesota in the next year or two, and I would like to save $10k-$15k more to invest in my first deal (currently have about $25k saved to invest in the future), I feel like I'm in limbo with my REI journey.For those of you who are further along in your investment journey, where would you go from here?

For example, I was evaluating a 4-plex property for a client.

Specifically:- Estimating cash flow- Evaluating long-term appreciation potential- Understanding neighborhood demographics- Estimating renovation costsI’m working on a tool where:- You paste a Zillow link.The system uses AI to:- Analyze cash flow potential via Rentometer rents- Predict appreciation based on historical trends- Break down local demographic dataGoal: Automate the time-consuming parts of deal analysis and help investors screen properties faster. 

I’m looking for perspective from experienced developers and operators as I evaluate which U.S. markets make the most sense for small-to-mid scale multifamily development—roughly 15 to 40 units—over the next phase of my investing.I’m intentionally not locked into a single market yet.

A few things about my criteria:Prefer minimal rehab - I’m not looking for a heavy value‑add project.Want a straightforward rental with solid demand and stable returns.Long‑term buy‑and‑hold strategy, not flipping.Open to SFR or small multifamily, depending on what my budget fits best.For those of you investing in Texas, I’d really appreciate your insight on:Which Texas markets currently offer the best rental fundamentals for a first‑time investorAny cities or neighborhoods you’d avoid due to taxes, regulations, or softening rentsTips for evaluating properties that don’t require major work but still cash‑flow reasonably wellThanks in advance for any guidance.

Financing: As Jaycee previously indicated, lenders primarily evaluate your personal financial circumstances.

Especially for out-of-area screening, portfolio comparisons, or brokers/investors evaluating multiple sites quickly.I also agree BP’s core audience is rental-focused, not entitlement-driven developers.

Your experience as a licensed realtor already gives you a sharp edge when it comes to evaluating deals and understanding the market.