I appraise real estate as a career and am actively trying to invest.I have also been going to tax lien sales for several years, observing.

I initially started looking around the U of Minnesota area as a starting point.As a result of this post and my family in St Paul's observations, I have asked my realtor to include listings from South Minneapolis.Where you describe as the location for your duplex is exactly what I'm looking for.

I made sure the studs were covered with 'waterproofing tape' & the joints had more than adequate silicon & the windows were vinyl clad.On the new build I just did for my son I personally observed all window installs but the Pella slider door got me.

(Remember, you can't discriminate based on familial status or kids or anything.)These are just some off-the-cuff observations.

Most observers would consider this a "healthy' real estate market.  

That's a great observation on ARV for investment properties here.

I always thought I did a good job of screening, gut checking, red flag observing – the usual seasoned Landlord stuff.

Basic observation of your neighbors homes should clue you in to if it's the norm/local ordinance, etc.

From what I've observed, turnkey investment strategies are best for long term buy and hold investments (+ 10 years).

Buy and hold is a long game.One other observation I have seen from business owners is that they often got into real estate by accident.