These are, or should be standards in design and build, that translate to any and all economic markets:1 - Treat the design as the first few times (changes) you will build, and pay for, the house.2 - Treat the design as a system, made up of a series of interacting systems.3 - Understand that design is a series of decisions, with each decision impacting more than just the immediate decision you are making. 

This covers local laws, property valuations, rental prices, and economic trends.Consider your financial situation and your budget.

Check with local governments for their economic plans.)Job Growth: Prioritize areas with a minimum of 2% employment growth YoY for the past two decades.

I recommend investing near economic bases near downtown and surrounding areas.

As for data, check out Census Bureau stats and local economic development websites—they're treasure troves.

Each one has exciting new projects on the horizon, like a minor-league baseball stadium in Spartanburg, South Carolina, entertainment districts in Huntsville, Alabama and Alpharetta, Georgia, and even economic development, like electric vehicle manufacturing in Bowling Green, Kentucky.FULL STORY

My recommendation if you decide to invest out of state is to choose cities in safe and economically diversified areas with above-average income and population growth.

I know every economic belief of lower rates= higher asset prices.

On the other side, economics have proven that rents go up significantly and vacancies are extremely low due to rent control.

Rental properties will always be a good investment, WHEN purchased at the RIGHT price, when held long term, when located in at least a DECENT location, and when the owner has the financial staying power to weather an economic EVENT.