In broad terms, I think it's really that simple.

You question is about as broad as it gets, so there really isn't much I can offer.

According to the recently released Nationwide Health of the Housing Market Report, Philadelphia follows Pittsburgh, PA and Cleveland, OH as the top housing markets in nation.See links below for more information.http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nationwide-unveils-broad-measure-of-us-housing-landscape-that-signals-healthiest-outlook-since-2001-2015-03-31http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/where-are-the-healthiest-us-housing-markets/vi-AAajaf4?

Looking to optimize my income and expenses on my taxes as I know there are a broad range of options that are all in full compliance w/ standard tax code. 

With that broad parameters they set, I am planning to put a cap on finishes as part of the proposal, say for tiles it will not exceed $2.00/sq ft on the finish material (grouts, mortar and etc not included as finish material and represent tile only), or give out colors on the countertop (ie gallo lines), so they would not choose anything expensive, basically I will be setting cap spending on top materials.

@Damien CoxI think this is way to broad of a post.

Rick H.But, nonetheless, good answer on such a broad question.

Next, I would look into other more broad categories such as job growth, capitalization rate movements, demographic shifts, education levels, dependence on certain industries (regarding employment), public transportation, city development programs, etc.Regarding unemployment, I think there's a catch to low unemployment.

***This is very general/broad advise but I hope that points you in right direction.At the very least, refer it to a broker as a listing and build a relationship with that broker for future comps your going to need as you start your investing career.  

@Tolu Malik, that's a pretty broad area.What is your criteria?