Performing/ nonperforming notes investing outstate

[Genevieve Cen]

I am a new investor in New York City, I have been hearing some good things about investing in performing/nonperforming notes in the south or midwest. Considering the difficult competition in New York, should I start out in a state I don't live in or never even been there? 

Does investing in notes in outstate require you to travel to that state?

Has anyone done this? How was your experience? What are the pros and cons of investing in real estate outside your home state?

As an alternative, what are some good neighborhood in New York State to focus my note investment in?

Thank you.