There are several other out-of-state cities that can give you stronger cash flow and easier scaling, especially as a long-distance investor.Other Markets to Consider:Akron / Canton, OH – Very affordable, excellent rent-to-price ratios, stable economyHuntsville, AL – High job growth, strong appreciation, landlord-friendlyBirmingham, AL – Low purchase prices, reliable cash flow, good PM infrastructureColumbus, GA – Military + manufacturing presence = stable rents, growing job marketTips for Picking the Right Market:Run the numbers first – GRM, cap rate, cash flow after taxes, insurance, PM fees, and vacancyTalk to local property managers – get real maintenance & turnover costsVisit or virtually tour neighborhoods – check schools, crime, amenitiesUse conservative underwriting – always build in a cushionI’d suggest comparing 2–3 of these markets side by side before making your first purchase.

Quote from @Tyler Ligan: Hello all, Soon to be first time investor here touring properties and looking to get into a rental soon.

While you prep for the license, don’t wait to act—tour properties, verify rents with a PM, and post a live deal here with your numbers and comps for feedback.

If I go with Tenant A, I’ll likely drop my property manager (she’s been unresponsive — I even had to send a family member to give a tour).

Just have your agent say buyer is traveling and we are doing video tour.

We are currently on a 10 day tour in Italy.

Next step: pick one target 3‑unit, draft offer A and offer B with your max, escalation cap, and appraisal‑gap limit, and be ready to send within hours of touring.

Enclosed walled castle area.  2 tour ships parked in town .  3,000 each.  

There are situations which I think it is beneficial to hold as well, like if you are thinking of upgrading homes and have to continue living in the one you want to sell.If anyone has questions, I would love to dig in and find what I can.Personally, it is not super fun to tour a bunch of homes right now, but I have a pretty good program for it and feel I am taking as many precautions as I can while still continuing to work.

To make it worth it before their tour is up.