If I use the upper end of the spectrum, I would need to set aside $2,860 per month, and if I use the lower end I would need to set aside $1,100 per month.

The phrase “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” applies directly to this concept, as spreading your investment across a broad spectrum is how investors balance risk and reward in their investment portfolio. 

(And no, hiring a property manager will not insulate you from all the issues.)On the other end of the spectrum, A areas (e.g., East Side of Providence, parts of Newport, etc.) have very few issues and properties there really hold their value, but the investments usually have very meager returns because the properties are in such demand and prices are high.So it really comes down to, you'll need to do your own research and decide where on the risk/aggravation-reward/return spectrum you want to be.

@Kris L.Agreed at the extremes of the rent spectrum it gets out of whack but it's a good barometer when evaluating for a potential deal.

Agents are obligated to disclose their license to anyone they negotiate with as a protection to laymen....who can still negotiate as they will, they've been clued that they are dealing with an expert.A real estate sale can happen between two laymen, two experts, or any combination of the two across the the spectrum.

While military residents can range the spectrum of positive to negative, ultimately I wouldn't invest there because it is a military city.

On the other bookend of the price spectrum you can buy a home that needs a lot of love, give it said love over time (live-in-flip anyone?!?) 

@Lesley Resnick: $45.6k / door is on the lower end of the spectrum for the OKC area, but not crazy low.

Otherwise, I suggest getting a broad spectrum of lenders' input.

I also charge at the upper end of the rental spectrum for my area as my place is nice, has a yard, and you can have your pet or ESA without issue.