Why would you think the government would be any different.

Government report statistics - population growth, crime rates, ethnicity mix2.

There are even grants the government gives to improve/rebuild these homes.

You can check on this with the governing fire department for the property. 

Real estate will always beat stocks bonds because the government set it up that way.   1031, 2 out of 5 primary, writeoffs, sweat equity, ADU value add, STR,  MTR, etc.  

I want to make sure I'm acting in accordance with the local government's legislation, but I'm having trouble making sense of all of the information I'm finding on https://www.roanokeva.gov/.How do investors usually navigate legislation requirements when starting renting in a new city?

I am in the process of exploring financing options for my first deal and I came across the idea of government down payment assistance grants.From what I read, these grants can be used to cover the down payment on a low money down loan such as FHA loan, which I was planning to utilize anyway since I will be an owner-occupant.Has anyone used this in the past?

Utah senators kill compromise bill giving tenants more notice of rent increases I do 30 days on mine and I don't raise rents more than once per year.I don't think the government should get more involved in property management. 

There is government data online to see where good schools are, low crime rates, and desirable city amenities.  

However, in many cases you likely won't be able to obtain by-laws until you are under contract.I would have your attorney include a specific "HOA" rider in the contract for this exact reason- It basically would require that you have ample time to review the governing docs of the HOA, such as master deed, current by-laws, current year’s budget, and last two years of audited financial statements, association meeting minutes, etc.