How to gather accurate information about a property

[Matt Mahony]

I am new to real estate investing, and I do not know how to take the next step.  When researching a property, what are good ways to gather information to assess if the property is a good investment?  I should mention I am looking to invest in remote markets, so a physical walkthrough is not an option.  Information I am looking for:

- Current rent
- What utilities are included in the rent, and their average cost
- Market rent (if different)
- Condition of the property (age of water heater, roof, any major repairs necessary)
- Vacancy rate

Are any of these public information?  If I ask the current owner for this information, how can I be sure he/she is not adjusting the numbers to inflate the property's value?

Thanks,

Matt