The area shows strong support for traditional and short term rentals, so if we find the student side of the market doesn't fit well with our operation we have options.

This can be a difficult thing for foreign owners and every scenario is going to be different so we would strongly encourage you to consult with an accountant and/or a tax attorney that is familiar with your scenario. 

These areas are booming with business influx and property values are holding strong.

There is not much you can determine from just economics, we recommend strong personal guarantees from the principals who will be the beneficiaries of your purchase.

I would strongly recommend you find a fire restoration company/contractor to walk a prospective property with you and give you a good understanding as to what needs to be done.

On the flip side of that though Utah market stays consistently strong.

@Clifford C Toth As someone who graduated college a year ago, I strongly recommend that you have the parents co sign on the lease.

But I also have no debt other than my investments, strong income, a couple credit cards with around $30,000 available, a big line of credit, friends and family I could borrow from, etc.

Having a strong pool of competent contractors was vital.

Inventory is limited right now, and it's gotten more competitive, but the rental market is strong and there is a lot of upside.