Where to find a location to start OOS investing?

[Leo Peralta]

Hello all, 

I'm totally new in real estate invest in general. I'm still doing my homework on how things work. On my homework list is to find where I want to start investing in. The way I am going about this is asking me if I would be comfortable to live there. Only problem, I haven't visited most of these places. Before I start buying plain tickets to visit all these places, I think it would be a great idea to narrow down my options. Any information about where I can get information about how to find good states, cities, and neighborhoods? Any key items to look for when doing this research?

Any information is much appreciated!