New to out of state rental investing.. help!

[Craig Williams]

Currently live in San Francisco and would like to purchase rental properties in other cities. I have looked into a few cities denton tx, kansas city, and columbus oh. Does anyone recommend a city to get started? 

[Reade Smith]

@Craig Williams that all depends on what your strategy is. 

Many investors are simply looking for high cash flows, so if that's what you're looking for then just browse the forums and you will see firsthand where people are finding those deals. However, many investors aren't just chasing cash flows. They are thinking 5-15 years ahead and buying in areas where they see true value and where people really want to live. They might even be willing to suffer lower cash flows for the short term, because they want to own properties in cities with higher than average growth prospects. Overall, not every city will offer you the same opportunities. 

Speaking in very broad terms, you want to look in cities with good employment prospects and good schools. Also, you want to take into consideration whether or not that city is landlord friendly. 

Denton is very popular, so is Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Memphis, Dallas, Fort Worth, and the list goes on

I'd recommend talking to people in the areas where you have the most interest. Then you can decide whether or not it will be a suitable place to invest, based on what you are trying to achieve.