Is the median income trending up, etc.Once you start getting into individual neighborhoods you probably want to look at crime statistics, foreclosure rates, etc.Is it possible to find a deal in a well established market using the 1% rule?

You'd probably get in the neighborhood of $50-60k, so you might be tight if you try to buy TWO duplexes (even with 3.5% FHA), but possible depending on what you buy.

I've learned I can still leverage MLS access/data for comps and getting a feel for a neighborhood. 

4 Unit Building (one floor/ranch style) - located in Chicago suburbs.

I got to know the Louisville area very well during my life, but do not know anything about the Columbus area; popular, growing, safe neighborhoods etc.  

It seems that about half of the neighborhood have owners that include utilities and the other half that either use RUBS or have lease agreements where tenants agree to pay a set monthly utility fee to owner in addition to their rent payment.  

I ruled out some of the cities and towns where BP investors seem to be flocking to, because it gets cold in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and that means broken water pipes, accidents, leaks, and especially the neighborhoods these $50k and $60k houses are in.

MLS -- searched on-and-off for 2 years for right combination of price, neighborhood, and number of vacant units.

This will queue you in to what neighborhoods in your market that do better than others and help you be able to quickly analyze a property when you are ready to buy.

I would love to network with someone next time I'm in the neighborhood.