Expanding into unfamiliar markets

[Josh E.]

Hello BP forums! I now have a couple duplexes under my belt, and am looking to expand my horizons. Real estate tends to be a little pricey in the state of Utah, so I'm considering branching out into other states that might look more attractive from a numbers stand point. My question is how do you go about finding deals, property management companies, and everything else that goes with it? Especially when you don't live there? Ive thought about looking for properties where I have friends or family in the area, so I can visit them and my properties at the same time and get the tax deduction. That would be St. Louis, Houston, Florence South Carolina, somewhere in Massachusetts, or maybe Oakland. But what other ideas are out there? Thanks! Josh