Branching into out of state investing

[Andrea Lauritzen]

We have a few rentals in our town (Tacoma, WA). Getting frustrated with the extreme laws and ready to go to a different area. We have a road trip planned to the midwest/south (Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville). We’ve decided to turn this trip into exploring the market over there.
Looking for advice on what we should do in preparation and areas we should focus on/avoid.