This is not a very analytical response, however my anecdotal response is that this could hurt comps in rural areas.

It’s a big mistake from an analytical standpoint to simplify the reason why things will crash being simply because prices are up.

I'm a very analytical person and have a habit of enjoying the learning and research so much I sometimes get stuck,In terms of cost estimating, a close friend is a GC in southern wake who does commercial renovations and rentals. 

@Zackarias Aitchison I suggest using a analytical approach, followed by a common sense/experience approach.Cap rate is typically for a commercial deal, but still can be utilized in residential simply as a means of comparing apples to apples, basically know if your buying a decent performer.Cash on cash is a great metric.

We think the growth thats been had will continue into the near, and distant future and our analytics show that too.All the best, and good luck!

In my opinion, with your strong analytical background (as well as a stable job w/ base and bonuses I'm assuming), I don't feel you'll need to do any 'grunt work' for a more experienced investor to get your foot in the door.

(Seriously, it's analytics that won't put you to sleep!)

I have an analytical mindset and enjoy getting my hands dirty.

All of these  indicators analytics go right out of the window when the dollar crashes .

For the third consecutive year, a study by The Wall Street Journal and Moody’s Analytics crowns Austin the country’s hottest job market among major metro areas.In ranking the 55 metros with at least 1 million residents, the study looked at five attributes: job growth, unemployment rate, share of adults working or looking for work, change in the size of the workforce, and change in average weekly wages.