@Brett Snodgrass If you like it, vote it up;)but more importantly, you being a local, what influence will this have?  

BOOST it on FB!

You can usually fix these issues and these will provide an immediate boost to the property's value.Also, I would say chances are good you can find some motivated sellers in these areas.

In addition, if you can buy a property under market, or with an opportunity to add value (even if it's just paint and landscaping), you then have the ability to give your investing a boost when you either raise the rents because you have a higher class property and/or pull out some equity to invest in another property.  

Also, If I learn more about real estate, then I would have some influence in that area; I would have the option to help people in this area...

They would also check percolation rates as part of that which influence design and tank sizes.  

The M-1 rail will provide a great boost to some areas and if you're willing to do a complete rehab, it might pay off.  

He's been a very positive influence thus far from my end. 

Now a seller's agent spend lots of money and time working their spheres of influence, doing business by referral, sending out marketing materials to possible sellers, organizing events to find sellers, cold calling, and many other things to find homes to list.

I would recommend the 7 habits of highly effective people and how to win friends and influence people.