How to research a new market

[Jessica Freesia]

Hi, Newb here, trying to understand things. How do you research a new market/suburb/neighborhood? I understand that in general I should be looking for trends in employment, what sector is driving the market, where the good schools are, where population is growing or shrinking, how a neighborhood is trending, crime rates, etc. But I need a process. What criteria do you make sure you've checked, and what websites do you use to check for each criteria? I understand that a RE agent or a property manager would be the best way to get this info, but I'd also like to learn to look things up myself. I'd appreciate any insight you have. Thanks in advance.