Analyzing + choosing a new market?

[Dan McDermott]

Hello, new guy here. 

I'm moving back to the US soon and I'm going to choose a location based partly on the local/regional real estate markets, as I'd like to start investing. I'd appreciate any market research resources anyone could point me towards (Redfin has some interesting reads, any others?). Also, if anyone has experience picking up and moving or expanding their geographic focus, were there specific criteria or catalysts that drove your selection of a particular new market?

I realize this is a completely subjective issue that depends on individual circumstances, goals, strategy etc.....I'm not looking for any perfect solution or hot tips, I'm just trying to look for potential long term value and a flexible market, and I'm interested in hearing about how others conduct their more general market analysis.  

Thanks!