Scouting a new market

[Chow Ahmed]

Hi BP Community,

What are some of the main criteria's you look for when researching a market you are not familiar with? In your experience, especially early on, what were some of the mistakes you made/failed to take into consideration when doing your research?

My background: I am a new to real estate/BP and looking to score my first owner occupied rental in a highly competitive market (Northern Jersey). I'm currently narrowing down my Townships and trying to scour data/street views/physically walking + driving through prospective towns.

Look forward to reading some of the responses, I especially want to learn from your mistakes!

:)