What factors to consider and which markets to focus for rentals

[Simran Singh]

Hello big pocketers :-),

I am new here and am looking for some insights into the world of real estate investing from a rental property perspective. I am trying to assess 2 things:

1) Which markets would be a good fit for buying a rental property

2) What criterion should I use to 'filter' which property to buy for rent and which markets to focus on: For the markets, my initial thoughts are that in addition to location and it making financial sense (positive cashflow and value appreciation, resale value etc...), it has to be something in proximity to where I am to manage it, it also needs to be more than a property to me: as in, I could see myself living there for say a vacation or in retirement (which is far away but still). Do these sound reasonable or am I viewing this decision and my criteria the wrong way? Any other factors to consider?

I wonder if my staying in California and buying relatively cheap property in say TN or NC/SC for rentals is unmanageable and then hiring a property manager eats into the profit.

Thanks for any advice in advance!