New Member Look for Out of State

[Jared Halphin]

Hey all, 

I currently reside in Central CA the market here is tough for rental properties. I am currently House Hacking, so my roommates are covering my mortgage and then some, it took almost a full year to find my property of constantly searching, then took roughly five months to close! 

Anyways, I know within roughly 2-3 years I will be looking at markets outside of CA to invest in, however, I would like to get a start in researching now and going down the path so that when I have sufficient funds I will be able to "pull the trigger". Does anyone have any good tips or tricks on finding a deal in the midwest or any other locations where it will be cheaper to buy a rental property? I am struggling on how to find a good location and what things I need to look for. Or do I throw a dart at a map and then do research on the cities house cost/rent price? If so, where would be a good website or some tools I would be able to find that sort of information, I looked on zillow and it doesn't seem to be very accurate. 

If anyone would be able to assist me or have any insight it would be greatly appreciated. I am eager to learn as much as possible! 

Thank you all for your time in advance!