Southern Illinois Carbondale/Marion Illinois area

[Mike Young]

I'm new to the real estate investment world. Have done a ton of researching on areas I have family in the Southern Illinois area. Talking to them about investing in buy and hold properties. Was suggested to look in that area. Brother informs me houses are for sale at great prices but homes to rent are in demand. From the research if done he looks to be correct. But thought I'd ask if anyone has ever had luck down there? I know Carbondale/Marion area pretty well. Not like the rest of my family but well enough. Any helpful input be great. Not that I do not trust my brother I do. But I believe in more then one opinion Thanks