For the long-term generational investors who also subscribe to the global warming and shortage of fresh water predictions, WI will become the prime real estate on the planet in that scenario - lol.

WOW, thank you Andrew for your reply, it seems like if I purchase a brand new house, I will have to depend on the home price to increase and the chance is hard to predict.

I’m trying to predict what the area will look like 15 years down the road.

If your goal is to sell in a few years there is no way to predict the end result so if you aren't comfortable taking that risk on your shoulders you probably shouldn't invest.  

My prediction is that over the next decade, as Raleigh and Charlotte become overpriced and overcrowded, Greensboro will be next to be hit with the population wave.

My husband is a high school football coach and English teacher. 

Roofing, siding and HVAC problems are pretty predictable cost wise.

You really can’t  predict what the tenant would want.

The more stability in a property’s income stream, the more investors are willing to pay because it behaves more like a bond with predictable income streams.

Cost can vary a lot here.Anyway, if you can afford it and easily answer your phone, I would start with direct mail as it will be the most predictable.