I guess with certain markets its achievable!

A portion of rent goes to the purchase price which is on the top end of market value. 

My main job is running my investment holding company, so I'm familiar with public and private market investments but new to RE. 

Quote from @Marc Zak: In the market where I live (San Diego), appreciation has been strong and many predict it will continue to appreciate in the long term.However, with current interest rates (6% at best) and property tax (2%), the annual cost burden is 8%.Am I correct in saying that appreciation has to be above 8% annually (plus whatever my maintenance and vacancy costs are) for me to make any money in this scenario if the property is cash flow neutral?

It's a free market. - You will finally get a tenant. 

Until the lease ends and then the legal notice time in your market has passed.

Just like any of the investment strategies here in BP, they need to evovle as the market and housing landscape evovles.

Zillow Rental Market Stats: It gives you an idea of how a zip code is performing, even down to the bedroom count.

Its also a great way to increase values in a market since newer homes sales offer higher sale prices.

Every Market (Detroit) has a series of Micro-markets (neighborhoods) of which they are all different in cost, value, cash flow, rents, etc...