Strategies for evaluating locations

[Michael Sokolski]

I am interested in multi-family rental properties and/or single family vacation rentals in Eastern Pennsylvania.  As with most newbies, I'm overwhelmed by the amount of information available and am nervous about the first deal.  

When looking for an ideal location, can anyone share their strategies and what tools you use to research neighborhoods you're not familiar with?  

Thanks.

[Michael Sokolski]

Thanks Justin.  Actually, my sister lives in Allentown (Whitehall to be specific - not sure if that's the same).  But, yes,  I'm looking between Allentown and Scranton and everywhere in between.  I also have family in Jim Thorpe which is a great area.    That's the area I'm looking to move when the time is right.