We picked this option.

LTRs with long term conventional financing and standard management aren't really cash flowing anywhere right now. sure, there are lower cost markets that look better on paper, but there are costs associated with those supposedly cheap markets as well - deferred maintenance, more challenging tenant base, higher cost turnovers as a percentage of the rent.2. i wouldn't pick a random market thousands of miles away based solely on statistics or numbers. 

I hear about all these different markets and get excited, but I knew I needed to pick one.

You kind of have to pick a lane - do you want income or 4 units in 4 years?

The ability to pick good renters on a consistent basis. 

There are tons of strategies, pick one that excites you and run with it until you have mastered it and then you can decide to pickup another strategy. 

There's no excuse.I've had renters pick up the keys, then call me 30 minutes later to say the bedrooms are smaller than they expected.

Typically SF'ers pick an astronomical price out of thin air. 

I would encourage you to read this beginners guide from BiggerPockets, it's a good bit of information so pick and choose what you want to read or read it all.

I live in Gilbert and own 5 rentals here, but I also help other investors find, analyze, buy and manage properties all over the valley, and Casa Grande is a top pick from some of my other investors.