What's the best way to determine if an area is good to live/rent?

[Traolly Xiong]

Looking to buy a property around the area to live and / or rent out. How do I find out if this area is safe and / or good to invest?

Any tips are fully appreciated. 

Thanks. 

[Matt K.]

take a look at the cars that make up the neighborhood and the upkeep of yards. This isn't fool proof, but can give you early signs that an area might be facing hard times.