Now, it took me many years and a lot of real estate trading to get to this place with my bank, but that is why I highly recommend that RE investors work hard and finding and nurturing a local banking relationship.

I can send a million articles, but i encourage you to go to maricopa.gov in addition to the city websites where you will see all the development going on here at a micro level. 

Lots of areas that pencil very well on paper but the quality of renter you will get is going to eat into any profit you may think you are getting.

@Cathy Ries Yes, tax planning before acquiring rental properties is highly beneficial, especially given your situation.

I have family in Houston, Dallas, and the Valley, I was networking with brokers in San Antonio, but the Taxes seem to be quite high as well in that State, although much favorable laws/regs on the landlord side.

However, full site visits, though more expensive, maximize tax savings by capturing every depreciable asset and offer better audit protection.While online studies may be suitable for simpler properties, full site visits are ideal for complex or high-value properties.

Some of their websites will probably explain everything you need to know.  

Crime and Tenant Quality: With the higher crime rate in 76104, how much impact could this have on tenant retention and turnover?

@Chad CutshallI can't answer for them, but their website doesn't indicate that buying/reselling notes is part of their business model.

Also, SAAS platforms are supposed to include support and service (that's the last S), but the quality varies greatly from company to company.